Luxe issue 82 - Jul/Aug23

BROADCAST LEGEND. Cool creatives. EAT WITH LAYBOURNE. Luxe dining. BEAUTIFUL CREATIONS. Sea-kissed skincare. INTERIOR INSPIRATION. Summer fun. SUPER STAYCATIONS. Cultural escapes. GOLF UPDATES. Mighty motors. SEASONAL FASHION. Big names. LUXE.

Putting together our summer edition is something we always look forward to here at Luxe HQ. The sun is (usually) shining, our thoughts are turning to some well deserved downtime and we’re basking in our gardens with that familiar BBQ aroma wafting through the air. I for one have been taking advantage of the warm weather and refining my outdoor grilling techniques, and in this issue we’ve asked our friend Terry Laybourne for his top tips for a successful BBQ garden party.

Nicole has also ventured out to uncover more gems within our wonderful region and beyond, she’s been partying with the great and good of Glastonbury, where so many people from the North perform the yearly pilgrimage down to Worthy Farm.

This issue is brimming with the very best highlights on offer, we’ve got everything from inspiring local artists and summer-inspired fashion, to beauty must-haves and travel inspo. All of that, plus a check-in with Close House, one of the region’s most revered golf clubs ahead of the International Series England tournament, as well as interviews with the people that make our region tick - and a famous face from the world of sport.

Whether you’re rooted in the comforts of home or exploring far-flung destinations, we are your trusted companions, guiding you through our most cherished sun-kissed moments.

We are thrilled to share our escapades with you. So sit back, preferably with an ice-cold beverage in hand, delve into the pages ahead, and join us in experiencing a summer of indulgence.

Chris

Remember to check in with us online at luxe-magazine.co.uk

See us on social at:

Twitter: @TheLuxeMagazine

Instagram: @luxe_mag

ISSUE 82

JUL/AUG23

contents

6>> Win with Luxe

Win a luxury two-night stay at Gisborough Hall

10>> The agenda

Summer plans pending

20>> Creative genius

We chat with Jim Edwards on selective memory painting

24>> Time for change

BT Sport presenter, Lynsey Hipgrave discusses women in sport

28>> Glam up

Race day fashion at your fingertips

34>> You’re so golden

Wardrobe staples for summer

37>> Beauty update

This issue’s cover star is the inspirational BT Sport presenter, Lynsey Hipgrave. When she isn’t commentating on the world of football, she can be found visiting friends, family and her beloved NUFC back in her hometown of Newcastle. The North East native’s three luxe things include: travel, exercise, and Provence Rosé!

How to take care of your hair this summer

46>> Luxe supper club

We head to Matfen Hall for a delightful dinner

48>> Finding bliss

Luxe checks in at Rockliffe Hall

50>> An Italian adventure

Embark on a journey across Italy

53>> Eat, sleep, discover

Pack your bags and explore the best of Durham

58>> Impressive designs

Introducing bespoke metal creations from Halman Thompson

64>> Summer school

Ways to keep little ones busy this summer

68>> Mighty motor

Luxe takes the BMW M2 out for a spin

71>> Tee time

International Series England lands at Close House

75>> Social diary

Eyes and teeth time

THE LUXE TEAM

Christopher March publisher - chris@allies-group.com

EDITORIAL

Elysia Fryer head of content - elysia@allies-group.com

Nicole Wood nicole@allies-group.com

Caroline Dask caroline@allies-group.com

Contributors: Reece Harper, Julie Burniston.

SALES

Debi Coldwell director - debi@allies-group.com

Lucy Andrews lucy@allies-group.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

Kevin Gibson info@kgphotography.co.uk

Nicky Rogerson nicky@kgphotography.co.uk

DESIGN

David Stubbs creative director - dave@allies-group.com

Euan Underwood euan@allies-group.com

If you wish to advertise with us please contact our sales team: Debi Coldwell: debi@allies-group.com / 07910 918366

Allies Group Ltd, Enterprise House, Kingsway, Team Valley Trading Estate, Gateshead, NE11 OSR allies-group.com

All contents copyright ©2023 Allies Group Ltd. All rights reserved. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, no responsibility can be accepted for inaccuracies, howsoever caused. No liability can be accepted for illustrations, photographs, artwork or advertising materials while in transmission or with the publisher or their agents. All information is correct at time of going to print, July 2023.

Annabelle Hill is the founder of Sea the Love - the North East’s newest sustainable skincare brand. Her three luxe things include: her family, friends and boyfriend all wrapped into one, living by the sea, and a refreshing gin and tonic. Give Annabelle a good gin and tonic on the beach with the people she loves… life’s perfect.

Facebook: @luxemag Our

Martha Gothorp, owner, designer and silversmith behind Salt & Co, is a creative genius making waves in the North East fashion scene. Her luxe things in life include: her dog, Mally, the sea, and her jewellerymaking tools.

LUXE LOVES

Reflective beauty

Elevate your home this summer with this gorgeous fairfield architectural window mirror from Rose and Grey. With fashionable rivets delicately adorning the metal joints, this mirror exudes a sense of timeless elegance that will enhance any living space. Experience the perfect blend of sophistication and artistry as you gaze upon this remarkable piece, designed to bring a touch of architectural splendour to your home. £850, roseandgrey.co.uk

WIN: A LUXURY TWO-NIGHT STAY AT GISBOROUGH HALL

We’ve teamed up with Gisborough Hall to give one lucky reader the chance to win a dreamy getaway to a place where luxury, comfort, and unforgettable experiences await. Immerse yourself in the beauty of North Yorkshire, indulge in exquisite dining, rejuvenate with indulgent treatments, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

On the edge of the North York Moors National Park, not far from the coast, you’ll find this enchanting country house hideaway and luxury home-from-home retreat to stay, eat, drink, relax and explore.

With restful rooms, award-winning food, an indulgent liquor room, and relaxing treatment rooms, Gisborough Hall offers guests a luxury base from which to explore North Yorkshire.

There’s plenty to see and do: the local cobbled market town can be reached along a country lane, English Heritage and National Trust sites are nearby, there are many scenic walking routes to enjoy, and the coast is just a short drive away.

Prize includes:

A two-night stay in an Old Hall bedroom for two people

Dinner on each evening (once in award-winning Chaloner’s restaurant and once in De Brus Bar and Grill)

An after dinner drink each from The Safe on one of the nights

Afternoon tea on one of the days

Two thirty-minute treatments

To win this spectacular prize worth over £950, all you have to do is visit luxe-magazine.co.uk/win and enter your details, or scan the QR code.

Closing date: 31 August 2023.

THE LUXE LOWDOWN:

Nicola Mercer

Luxe checks in with Nicola Mercer, transformational health coach, podcaster and speaker, to find out her luxe things in life

working in corporate positions to unwrap what health really means so they can build sustainable healthy habits into their life.

All in all it’s about teaching these things so they can live the happy, fulfilled and thriving life they feel like they’re striving so hard for, but failing to achieve, right now. I founded my business, Life Now Coaching, in 2021 following 20 years working for Nike where I learned all about the importance of movement and mindset for healthy living.

I now use these within my core framework alongside nutrition, sleep and stress relief to help people get back in control of their lives through creating a healthier lifestyle. A day in the life of you?

What I’ve enjoyed most since stepping into the entrepreneur world is that no two days are ever the same! And, the best bit, is that I get to choose how each day goes.

I start every day with a hot water and freshly squeezed lemon. This is my longest daily habit and I do it wherever I am, even on holiday. I take a short walk whilst listening to a podcast. I’m an avid podcast fan, so you’ll see me doing whatever I can inside and outside of the house wearing my airpods. I love getting outdoors first thing as it really helps to boost my mood and focus so I start my day in a strong way. I tend to check out social media first, as a huge piece of my marketing is done using social media, so I put out my daily post, check for comments on my recent posts, and message and connect with people in my community.

I recently launched a podcast so I might do some prep for an upcoming recording: checking out info on a guest and planning out questions to ask them. The recording takes around one hour and I love doing the guest interview episodes. I’ve met so many fascinating and inspiring people, so I love how it’s helping me before it gets published and helps others.

Most days include some kind of networking, either online or in-person. I’ve found both formats to be of value and I’ve built some great relationships with people based all over the world doing so many different types of jobs and running all kinds of businesses. I like to do my workouts at lunchtime, so I’ll pop down into my home gym – the garage – and maybe do a spin session, a HIIT workout, or some strength training with weights. I love sharing my workouts on my Instagram stories because I am super driven to get everyone moving their bodies more, even if it’s only by taking some extra steps while they’re waiting for the kettle to boil! Then it’s coaching time using Zoom. This could be with an individual client or in a group either as a support type session or a bit more structured like a workshop. I usually work on an evening after dinner with my daughter and partner, taking part in training or coaching sessions, so most weekdays I tend to finish work around 9pm. Any recent, ongoing or upcoming projects or achievements we should know about?

What does downtime mean to you?

I love getting outside for long walks. I enjoy the coast and walking along the beach when the tide is out, but am equally happy doing a country walk. This would definitely be followed by a nice pub lunch and a glass of red wine.

LESSONS IN LIFE >>

What did you want to be when you were growing up?

I started out wanting to be a teacher and decided to pull out of my uni place last minute and swap into business. I did some volunteering work at a local primary school in my last year at college and quickly decided that spending the rest of my life in a school wasn’t for me.

What is the most important lesson life has taught you?

Things change and often, what appears to be something that’s going to derail you sends you onto a much better track in the end. You need to see the journey, and not always have to know the exact destination, which can be difficult when something big shifts and you just want the security back of knowing where you’re going.

What is your greatest fear?

Dying. I struggled with this fear for many, many years and finally realised I was so scared of dying that I wasn’t really living. Now I want to make sure I take good care of myself to enjoy the time I have as I value life so much more and share how important it is that we live our life to the fullest.

LIVING

LUXE >>

What is top of your bucket list?

Standing on Main Street in Magic Kingdom, Disney World Florida on Christmas Day, and of course wearing my Minnie ears!

What is your most treasured possession?

My Mam’s wedding ring.

What does the weekend mean to you?

Time to create new memories with the ones I love spending my time with.

The last place you ate?

The Red Lion at Boldon.

The last thing you listened to?

A podcast episode with Dr Rangan Chatterjee and Dr Mark Hyman - Feel better, Live More - such an insightful and thought provoking episode.

Which living person do you most admire and why?

Such a tough question! Ella Mills of Deliciously Ella. She really helped me to see a way forward to a better life through wellness and alongside Joe Wicks, propelled me to see the value of health in living the life you dream of. She is such an advocate for entrepreneurship and building something that adds value to your own and others’ lives, and wellness in a way that we haven’t really seen here in the UK before. A memorable holiday?

My last one – a summer break in Palma sightseeing and enjoying the sunshine.

Best dress?

GETTING TO KNOW YOU >>

Name? Nicola Mercer

Title? Transformational Health Coach

Where Is home? Birtley

Three reasons you love where you live?

Firstly, I have the most amazing view from the back of my house and can see the Angel of the North from my home office window.

Secondly, I am in a fab spot to easily get to the coast, the countryside, into Sunderland

where I have a lot of friends and family, and into Newcastle for shopping, drinks and nice meals. And finally, I can easily get out and about for lots of different walks right on my doorstep.

THE DAY JOB >>

What do you do for a living?

I’m a Transformational Health Coach supporting female entrepreneurs and those

I launched the Live Healthy Now podcast in October and the response has been incredible. I’m very proud of the content I’m putting out there but also of the fact I was able to work out how to do all of the tech, as I started from scratch and am not great with tech whatsoever! The podcast strips back what health and wellness is about, to give people the truth about why taking care of themselves is so important to leading a long, happy life. We share insights into all the different ways you can take better care of yourself, so you can find what works best for you and get actionable tips on how to get started right now.

My little black and gold dress that comes out every Christmas Day for a bit of Christmas sparkle.

Who would be your top three dinner guests? Michelle Obama, Jennifer Lopez, Mel Robbins.

The last thing you watched?

Pieces of her.

The last book you read?

The High Five Habit, Mel Robbins. Your three luxe things in life?

Travel – a combination of sun, sightseeing and culture. Downtime in my own home, cooking something nice while chatting and sipping my rosé! Sipping my favourite glass of champagne looking out onto a nice view.

Discover the Beauty of Athens and Beyond...

Awaken your adventurous nature this summer with the NEW direct flight to Athens from Newcastle International Airport. Greece’s flagship carrier, AEGEAN will be operating flights twice a week to the capital city until 25th October 2023.

Athens

Regarded as Europe’s most historic city dating back to the 13th century BC, Athens offers a precious glimpse into the city’s fascinating past, with spectacular sights, landmarks, museums and archaeological wonders. Today, Athens is a buzzing city appealing to visitors not only because of the intense history, but also because of the natural beauty, stunning beaches, mouth-watering cuisine and warm climate which awaits your arrival. It’s no wonder it was voted as Europe’s best cultural destination in 2022!

This exciting new route conveniently unlocks connections across a network of Greek islands and beyond with three ferry ports and an International Airport.

Chios

Despite being the fifth largest Greek island, Chios remains a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

Dating back to Neolithic period 8,000 years ago, this island oozes history. Discover charming medieval villages, exceptional architecture and a UNESCO-recognized monastery.

Located close to the Turkish coasts, Chios beaches won’t leave you disappointed. Known for their crystal clear waters and deserted coves, they’re the perfect spot to enjoy ultimate tranquillity.

The island is particularly famous for its production of mastic; a natural resin from a mastic tree which is turned into a natural gum, or food ingredient due to its known health benefits.

It’s easy to connect to Chios from Athens, with direct AEGEAN flights, or a ferry from Piraeus port.

Milos

This Cycladic beauty has gained major popularity over recent years and is now one of the Mediterranean’s most sought after spots. Thanks to its social media exposure, travellers are left swooning over the islands exotic beauty.

The island is home to more than 70 beaches, but one you won’t want to miss is the lunar landscape of Sarakiniko. It is one of the most photographed locations in the world and has been used in global fashion campaigns including; Louis Vuitton, Prada and Dior. The moonscape beach was formed as a result of volcanic activity millions of years ago shaping its unique white rock formation. Top tip – get there early to beat the crowds!

For sunset, you’ll want to visit Plaka Castle; located at the top of a hill offering an incredible 360 degree view over the island. This is an island you’ll definitely want to include in your Greek adventure!

Paros

For a more traditional alternative to the popular island of Mykonos, visit Paros. Here you’ll find cubic white washed houses, blue domed chapels and narrow cobbled streets – the ultimate definition of quintessential Greece.

Beaches in Paros are thought to be some of best in the Cyclades with their golden sand and turquoise waters. Whether you want ultimate relaxation or to immerse yourself in water sports, there’s something here for everyone.

Which island will you discover?

Scan the QR code to the right and book your next adventure.

Don’t forget to tag us in your photos for a chance to be featured on our social channels@NCLAirport

The agenda: summer happenings >>

Smash hit musicals, spectacular foodie festivals and feel-good music moments, Reece Harper guides us through the summer season…

THEATRE

Raby Castle Open Air Theatre and Outdoor Cinema

JULY - AUGUST

COMEDY

Russell Howard

23 JULY

Get ready to laugh your heart out as the hilarious Russell Howard takes to the stage at the Globe Theatre. Known for his quick wit and sharp comedic timing, Russell Howard is guaranteed to deliver a side-splitting performance that will leave you in stitches. With his unique observations on everyday life and relatable humour, this is a comedy show you won't want to miss. Prepare for an unforgettable evening filled with laughter, entertainment, and plenty of comedic brilliance. stocktonglobe.co.uk

MUSIC

Pride 2023

22 - 23 JULY

After a phenomenal turnout of 70,000 attendees in 2022, Northern Pride is making a grand return to Newcastle this summer. Anticipate an event that surpasses all expectations, aiming to be even bigger and more spectacular. This year's festivities promise a perfect blend of celebration and activism, as well as a chance to reunite with old friends and forge new connections. The Ministry of Sound will host the unforgettable closing party on Saturday night, featuring renowned international DJs Smokin Jo and Seamus Haji on the main stage. Whether you're a seasoned Pride-goer or a first-time attendee, rest assured that Northern Pride offers something for everyone. northern-pride.com

WORKSHOPS

Drive and Dine with Hype Motorsport

23 - 25 JULY

Get ready for three days you'll never forget. You and a group of friends will experience a speed demon's paradise: cut your teeth on SIMTrack, the one-of-a-kind virtual track simulation experience around the Croft Circuit, competing with your friends on day one, before going on to the real deal on day two - test driving the Hype edition Alpine A110S, Porsche Cayman GTS, and BMW M2C around the Croft Circuit for real, and experiencing over 1,100 horsepower! You'll privately dine at a selection of gourmet restaurants, bars and kitchens, and stay in the luxurious Grantley Hall for two nights. Buckle up and start your engines! grantleyhall.co.uk

Experience the enchantment of Raby Castle’s Open Air Theatre and Outdoor Cinema this summer. Nestled amidst picturesque landscapes, immerse yourself in a captivating line-up of theatrical performances and cinematic delights. From the likes of The Greatest Showman, Dirty Dancing, Elvis and more, indulge in an unforgettable evening under the stars. Let Raby Castle be your gateway to summer magic. raby.co.uk

THEATRE Dinosaur Adventure Live

1 AUGUST

Dino lovers are in for a treat! If you want a show that will amaze the young ones and ignite their fascination, search no more! Prepare to be enthralled at the magnificent Tyne Theatre and Opera House. When the children are glued to their devices and need a break, it's time to take them on a nostalgic journey back in time—specifically, 65 million years ago. The kids will have the opportunity to delve into prehistory, discovering various species that once inhabited the Earth and ensuring everyone has a fantastic time. tynetheatreandoperahouse.uk

ARTS & CULTURE

Sin: The Art of Transgression at Auckland Castle

17 JUNE - 1 OCTOBER

Bringing together works of art that span centuries, this exhibition - organised by the National Gallery, London with The Auckland Project - explores the concept of sin in art in a truly unique presentation. A concept that is universal, but at the same time highly personal, Sin: The Art of Transgression asks you to define your own meaning of ‘Sin’. The exhibition includes eight exceptional paintings from the National Gallery’s collection and works on loan by Tracey Emin and Ron Mueck. The exhibition is free with The Auckland Project Annual Pass or an Auckland Castle ticket. aucklandproject.org

MUSIC

The Gainford Group Ladies Day ft Ronan Keating

29 JULY

Mark your calendars for the highly anticipated Ladies Day, an event hailed as the pinnacle of summer festivities. Secure your tickets for a day on the track filled with exhilarating races. Dress to impress and showcase your impeccable style in the Style Competition, where you'll have the chance to win incredible prizes worth thousands of pounds. As an added treat, the renowned Ronan Keating will grace the stage as part of his tour this year, ensuring a captivating musical performance. After the races, revel in the official afterparty held at Aveika, where the celebration continues. This action-packed July event is designed with the ladies in mind, featuring races from 2pm to 5pm, and a plethora of exciting activities to enjoy in between. Make sure not to miss out on this unforgettable experience.

newcastle-racecourse.co.uk

THEATRE Alice in Wonderland

1 - 12 AUGUST

In a wonderfully imaginative retelling of the Lewis Carol timeless classic - Laura Turner’s Alice in Wonderland will take you down the rabbit hole from your seat at Gala Durham. With music and drama across a new frontier for the classic characters, you’ll be mad as a hatter to be late, for this very important date. For ages five and up, this heartwarming summer tale is a show you’ll be tweedle-dumb to miss, with all the tweedle-details on the Gala website, tickets are available now! galadurham.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK

Lunch Club with Tyneside Mandolin Orchestra

1 AUGUST

Prepare yourself for an extraordinary dining experience that surpasses all others. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with a sparkling beverage to set the tone. Indulge in a delectable two-course meal accompanied by a glass of wine, and conclude with a satisfying cup of coffee. Despite the midday timing, this remarkable feast will transport you to the realm of an enchanting dinner and a show. Serenading you throughout the meal will be the mesmerising melodies of the Tyneside Mandolin Orchestra, filling the resplendent Cloister Garden with their captivating music. All of this is included in the ticket price, making this Lunch Club an absolute must-attend event.

blackfriarsrestaurant.co.uk

THEATRE Dirty Dancing

1 - 5 AUGUST

Where are you tonight? You'll hope it's here to relive the breathtaking lifts and the timeless tunes of Dirty Dancing, on the main stage of Newcastle's Theatre Royal. Following a successful box office season at London’s Dominion Theatre, overload on what the Observer called ‘The biggest live theatre sensation of all time’ - with all the classics from 'Hungry Eyes' to 'The Time of My Life', book your seats early and enjoy the show, because nobody puts you in a corner. Watch me now! theatreroyal.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK

Seaham

Food Festival

5 - 6 AUGUST

Foodies will be delighted to learn that the Seaham Food Festival is set to return again this year. Now a staple in the North East foodie calendar, this is the place to be when it comes to sampling great food. Between accredited chefs and entertainers at every turn, you'll find yourself spoiled for choice this August. A wealth of regional suppliers make up the heart of this experience, bridging between artisan meals to remember, and street food grub that'll make your heart sing. With world class entertainment in abundance all festival long, this is the kind of 'dinner and a show' you'll kick yourself if you miss. seahamfoodfestival.co.uk

Free family fun >>

MUSIC

Novum Newcastle

11 - 13 AUGUST

Experience the ultimate fusion of free creative workshops, live music, and awe-inspiring visual art at Novum Newcastle - the city's newest and most anticipated Summer Festival. This multi-artform extravaganza is making its debut this year and promises an unforgettable experience. Brace yourself for an event of monumental proportions taking place this August at Newcastle Civic Centre. Showcasing the talents of local, national, and international artists, this cultural festival will captivate audiences of all ages with a plethora of family-friendly activities throughout the entire weekend. Don't miss out on this remarkable celebration! novumnewcastle.com

Shaun the Sheep On the Tyne Art Trail

Make sure to prioritise the Shaun the Sheep On the Tyne Art Trail as a top family activity this summer. Equipped with a dedicated trail map and an engaging interactive app, embarking on this artistic journey becomes an exciting adventure for all. Each sculpture becomes a treasure to find, and the rewards and fascinating facts you unlock along the way amplify the thrill of the experience. This trail not only provides an exceptional opportunity for families to bond and create lasting memories but also contributes to a noble cause. Following the public trail, the large Shauns will be auctioned off to raise funds and awareness for St Oswald’s Hospice. By participating in this adventure, families actively support the charity’s invaluable work in aiding individuals facing life-limiting conditions in the North East. Embrace this opportunity to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a delightful and memorable experience with your loved ones. shaunonthetyne.co.uk

The Dark Side of the Moon at Life Science Centre

In honour of the 50th anniversary of Pink Floyd’s legendary album ‘The Dark Side Of The Moon,’ Life Science Centre is set to mesmerise audiences by transforming its planetarium into an awe-inspiring blend of visuals and music. Prepare to be captivated as the breathtaking show takes you on a cosmic journey, offering stunning views of the solar system and beyond, all synchronised to the 42-minute masterpiece that is ‘The Dark Side Of The Moon.’ With the use of cutting-edge technology, this exclusive event promises a completely immersive experience like no other. Make sure to mark your summer calendar (Wednesday 16 and Thursday 17 August) this one’s not to be missed! life.org.uk

BALTIC

Embark on an enchanting journey of imagination at BALTIC, where interactive art installations, hands-on activities, and captivating exhibitions await. Stimulate curiosity and ignite creativity as you delve into a world of artistic wonders suitable for all ages. BALTIC ensures an unforgettable experience that will leave your family with cherished memories and beaming smiles. Familiarise yourself once again with the amenities: a picnic area, baby change facilities, a sensory room, complimentary drinks and snacks, and even free nappies and wipes upon request. And of course, the art itself is nothing short of extraordinary—prepare to be wowed. baltic.art

WORKSHOPS

Indian Masterclass at Swinton Cookery School

17 AUGUST

Roll up your sleeves and immerse yourself in the world of authentic Indian cuisine at the stunning Swinton Estate. Spend a day with a skilled master chef in a professional kitchen, where you will learn the art of creating exquisite dishes, from Lamb Raan to Chicken Tikka Masala. Through hands-on training in the chef’s own kitchen, you’ll discover the secrets of toasting spices, marinating chicken, and expertly plating the final, mouthwatering creations. Priced at £185 per person, this culinary adventure promises to revolutionise your approach to cooking. swintonestate.com

NE1 Screen on the Green

Don’t miss out on the ultimate summer tradition! NE1’s Screen On The Green, held at Newcastle’s Old Eldon Square, is back with an incredible line-up of films that are sure to delight. Prepare for toddler takeovers, beloved family classics, thrilling blockbusters, and live sporting events right in the heart of Newcastle’s city centre. The best part? It’s completely free, and the festivities will continue all summer long. Make your way over, settle into a cosy deckchair, and indulge in popcorn while creating unforgettable memories with your family. getintonewcastle.co.uk

Our luxe guide to fun-fuelled, free days out for the whole family…

Can you apply for a Financial Order in the UK following a foreign divorce?

As often arises, parties may have been married and divorced overseas but have not been able to resolve all their finances satisfactorily. Shamin Ali, an associate solicitor with TBI’s Private Family Law Team considers the issue in this article. The English Courts have the power to grant financial relief to a party, however this does not mean that the applicant will get a second bite of the cherry so to speak from perhaps an award made overseas but will consider the award based on what the applicant would have been entitled to had they initially instigated financial remedy proceedings in the UK. The applicant would be seeking financial provision under Part III of the Matrimonial and Family Proceedings Act 1984. This legislation was enacted to give English courts the power to grant relief after a marriage has been dissolved (or annulled) in a foreign court.

The basic criteria to be met is that the marriage and the divorce must be legally recognised and be valid under English law. Further the Applicant must not have remarried. The court will consider whether adequate financial provision was made where the parties had substantial connections with England. The courts will also look at a number of factors such as the financial benefit that the applicant has already received or whether the applicant has failed to take advantage of a right under the foreign law to claim financial relief. The hardship or the injustice which would result if no award were made would be a relevant factor.

The amount of financial provision awarded will depend on all the circumstances of the case, but three general provisions should be applied, firstly the primary consideration is the welfare of any child of the marriage, secondly it will never be appropriate to make an order which gives the applicant more than he or she would have been awarded

had all proceedings taken place within England and Wales and thirdly where possible provision is made for the reasonable needs of each spouse. The applicant must also satisfy the judicial requirement in that:

• Either party is domiciled in England and Wales on the date the application or permission took place or

• Either party has been habitually resident in England for at least one year ending on the date of the application or the date that the divorce took place

• Either party has at the date of the application an interest in a property in England and Wales that at some point was used as the matrimonial home.

An example of how the court applied the above was how the case of Agabaje v Agabaje heard in 2010 was dealt with, where an appeal to the higher courts was allowed. In this case both Mr and Mrs Agabaje were born in Nigeria. They acquired UK citizenship in 1972. This was a long marriage of 38 years. All five of their children were born in the UK (and all but one child educated in the UK). In 1975 Mr A, bought a property in England in which the children stayed with their nanny. For the majority of their married life Mr A and Mrs A lived predominantly in Nigeria. When they separated in 1999, Mrs A came to live in the UK in their English property and remained living there.

In 2003 Mr A issued divorce proceedings in the Nigerian Courts and Mrs A sought financial relief. The Nigerian courts awarded her a life interest in the property in Lagos in Nigeria (which had a capital value of £86k and a lump sum equivalent to £21k. However, Mrs A sought financial relief from the English courts and was granted

permission. She was subsequently awarded a lump sum equating to 65% of the sale proceeds of the English property of about £275,000 on the condition that she relinquish her life interest in the Lagos property. The Supreme Court ruled that a divorce settlement reached in a Nigerian Court would have caused real hardship to the Wife which is why it ordered that she be awarded a more generous settlement.

Should you wish to seek further advice then please contact Shamin Ali in the Private Family Law team at Tilly Bailey & Irvine on 01740 646000.

Luxe reads

THEATRE Charlie and the Chocolate Factory The Musical

2 - 13 AUGUST

Come and be lost in a world of your imagination, with a stage musical based around the 1970s motion-picture classic. From the creative minds behind the world famous Hairspray, Gareth Snook’s Willy Wonka sprinkles it with love and makes the world taste good from the stage of the magnificent Sunderland Empire. You’ll follow the classic journey of Charlie Bucket and the kids who found the golden tickets, exploring the fantastical world of Wonka and his dreamworld factory, laughing and singing all the way. atgtickets.com

MUSIC Martin Kemp’s Ultimate 80s August Bank Holiday Special

27 AUGUST

Spandau Ballet legend Martin Kemp, with Tom Caulker from World Headquarters, is hosting a night of his favourite 80s anthems from 7-11pm on this late August bank holiday - whether you’re wanting to see the legend on the DJ tracks or just looking to get down to some of the best of music’s favourite decade, the roof will be bouncing. Book your tickets to relive the glory. tickets.welovewhq.com

Book

it now >>

FAMILY Disney on Ice presents 100 Years of Wonder

Get ready for an enchanting celebration as ‘Disney On Ice presents 100 Years of Wonder’ glides into Utilita Arena Newcastle this December. Join Mickey Mouse and his beloved friends as they embark on a journey to uncover Mickey’s most cherished memory, marking Disney’s 100th Anniversary. Be part of the adventure as they traverse iconic Disney stories, sharing unforgettable moments from treasured tales. Experience the magic of Encanto as Mirabel and her extraordinary family take you to a magical casita in the mountains of Colombia. Sail alongside Moana, discover the power of true love with Anna and Elsa in Arendelle, and witness the mystical wonders of Fantasia. Be inspired by the determination and perseverance of Disney Princesses, dive into the depths with Dory and Nemo, and embrace the friendship of Buzz Lightyear and Woody. Don’t miss this sensational production at Utilita Arena Newcastle from Wednesday 6 to Sunday 10 December 2023. Book your tickets now! utilitaarena.co.uk

While it’s a universal truth that if you want to make God laugh, the only thing you have to do is to tell him about your plans. This might be news to genetics professor Don Tillman. Struggling to have a serious relationship with women, although he himself thinks he’s the whole package - smart, physically fit and financially stable - Don sets out to create a questionnaire to find the ideal woman. Once the ‘Wife Project’ is devised, Don soon finds out it’s not as easy to find the perfect match. When he meets Rosie, he quickly alienates her as a potential candidate together with many others, but life, as always, has a funny way of placing us right where we belong.

This is the tale of an unlikely friendship that flourishes in the Terminal Ward between 17-year-old Lenni and 83-year-old Margot. Both suffering from a terminal illness and both still with plenty of living to do, they embark on a painting journey to showcase the lives they have lived in their 100 years combined. As they go through a decade showcasing courage and kindness, love and loss, joy and sadness, they are set to leave their mark on the world. Drawing on themes such as the preciousness of life, power of friendship and the legacy we leave behind, this will be a perspectivechanging and inspirational read this summer.

A perfect read for those who sometimes wonder, what if… What if I chose another path in life? What if I lived up to my full potential? What if I stayed in that relationship? what if I dedicated my life to exploring? Well, what if you had a chance to read about Nora Seed, whose life is filled with ‘what if’ questions that can now be answered by a simple visit to The Midnight Library? A library of books where the shelves never end and where every book shows a different turn of events of ‘what could have been’. Follow Nora on a journey of self discovery and acceptance of life as it is.

A novel that will give you everything you need to brighten up your mood on a cloudy summer’s day. Funny, witty and entertaining, the story follows two women - a grandmother and a granddaughter - both of which are craving for something the other one has got. Leena needs some well-deserved time off, after blowing up a presentation at her London office and Eileen is recently single, trying to navigate dating at a mature age in her tiny Yorkshire village. It’s time for a two-month switch! Watch Eileen navigate the modern London life with online dating and trendy London flatmates, while Leena falls into the world of village gossip and family-dynamics. An uplifting read filled with warming laugh-out-loud moments and charming characters.

The Secret by Rhonda Byrne

The mind is a powerful thing and this book will show you ways in which positive thinking can help you improve your life, even just a little bit. In other words, this book is about manifesting and the law of attraction. Even if you are someone that’s sceptical about these things, the book encourages positive thinking and maybe if you’re having a bad day, this is exactly what you need. A tool to uplift, inspire and to say that no matter how bad things sometimes get, this too shall pass… With the power of positive thinking!

Caroline Dask picks out five of her favourite mood-boosting reads, perfect for those sun-soaked days in the garden…

Sweet charity

Children’s Cancer North >>

Established in 1979, Children’s Cancer North’s mission is clearsupporting children with cancer. They have done so successfully over the years, raising funds and awareness, helping both patients and their families. They would not have been able to do it without support from others so in order to keep their mission strong, there is an exciting, fundraising event on the horizon. Clarty Bairns 2023 promises a fun-filled day for the whole family, where one thing’s clear - you might get muddy. Participate in various challenges and overcome gigantic obstacles, all while breathing in the fresh and clean air. The event is taking place every weekend starting from 8 July, and what better way to create happy memories and support the cause than to attend. childrenscancernorth.org.uk

Deaf Awareness NE >>

Deaf Awareness NE is a local charity that works endlessly to make the world a safer and more accessible place for those who are hearing impaired - both in social situations as well as in the workplace; delivering deaf awareness training to businesses to stimulate better job opportunities. This summer, their calendar is packed with fun events to bring people closer together. Join their arts and creativity group running all throughout July, play badminton every Tuesday, tennis on Wednesdays, and learn sign language every Thursday. Activities are open to everyone, all in the hopes of connecting people closer together. deafawarenessne.org.uk

Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter >>

Some furry friends are waiting to see you at the Summer Fair on 5 August, hosted by Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter, where visitors will be able to partake in various activities including crazy golf, a climbing wall, circus performances and inflatables. Let’s not forget numerous food and drink vendors, as well as local arts and crafts. To top it all off, visitors will be able to see the animals and all proceeds from the event will go into supporting them, providing the care and resources they so desperately need. dogandcatshelter.com

Ouseburn Farm >>

Ouseburn Farm is a sanctuary providing refuge from the busy city life. It stands out as a unique charity that caters specifically to adults with learning difficulties and autism. Throughout the summer, the charity organises various events that allow visitors to engage with the farm animals, including opportunities to feed and interact with them, go on goat walks, bathe reptiles, and learn about the origins of food. This distinctive approach not only supports the charity but also allows individuals to connect with nature. In case you develop a fondness for any of the animals during your visit, such as friendly cows, fluffy sheep, adorable pigs, goats, rabbits, or chickens, there is always a chance to become a sponsor for them. Any contribution, no matter how small, can make a difference! ouseburnfarm.org.uk

St. Oswald’s Hospice >>

Focused on providing quality time to those with terminal conditions, St. Oswald’s Hospice are adding colour to the beloved streets of Newcastle with Shaun The Sheep On The Tyne trail. This July, 50 super-sized sculptures of a familiar character from Wallace and Gromit will be decorated by local artists, young and old, and displayed in Newcstle’s most iconic landmarks. After the trail is over, all Shaun The Sheep sculptures will be available for auction in order to raise much-needed funds for St. Oswald’s Hospice. This summer, you are encouraged to participate in a fun family day out by visiting the sculptures and to do good by purchasing one for your home or office. stoswaldsuk.org

Good things going on in the North East, making the world a better place, one step at a time…

LOVE NORTH EAST

Our wonderful region through your lens. Here are some of your recent shots from days out in local beauty spots

Dreaming of >>

CAVO TAGOO HOTEL, MYKONOS

Named as one of the most Instagrammable Hotels of 2023, Cavo Tagoo has caught our attention. A true blue paradise with the most picturesque sunset views, jaw-dropping infinity pool and an aquarium bar, we’re certainly dreaming of spending a day or two here this summer. Not that we need any more convincing, but the hotel offers the true and authentic Mykonian vibes, chic architecture and fine dining, of course. Oh-so dreamy! cavotagoo.com/mykonos

10 things luxe loves

Kitchen Inspo >>

HONEYCOMB SIDE TABLE

Behold the remarkable centrepiece, designed to captivate every guest with its distinctively eye-catching shape, seamlessly merging opulence and functionality - perfect for an open-plan kitchen and living space. Crafted from meticulously moulded iron, adorned with a lavish Gold Leaf finish, this exquisite table embodies unparalleled luxury. Its versatile nature lends itself to myriad purposes, from showcasing your prized coffee table books and accommodating your morning cuppa, to graciously hosting an elegant vase or serving as the ideal surface for indulging in a refreshing cocktail or two. £119, atkinandthyme.co.uk

In our basket >>

THE LEATHER MEDIUM TOTE BAG BY MARC JACOBS

Embrace the vibrancy of summer hues with the epitome of eye-catching elegance: The Tote Bag by the renowned fashion maestro, Marc Jacobs. As the pinnacle of contemporary style, this iconic accessory has become the symbol of the season, garnering widespread acclaim. A must-have for any bustling summer day, whether you dream of a relaxing afternoon at the beach or a quick run to the shops, The Tote Bag will fit everything you need, a laptop, a water bottle, a camera, some flip flops and a good book. Choose from a range of colours, or opt for our favourite - bright yellow. £495, marcjacobs.com

Watching >>

THE OUT-LAWS

On the days when summer decides to suddenly turn to rainy autumn, we’re keeping ourselves occupied with a good action-comedy

Perfect scent >>

TOM FORD SOLEIL DE FEU

Embrace the captivating allure of a bronzed sunset with Soleil de Feu, an exquisite fragrance for Summer 2023. Evoking sensuality and warmth, this luxurious scent blends tuberose notes, rich ambers, and exotic sandalwood. Its luxe bottle design exudes architectural elegance making it a monumental addition to your collection. £210, tomford.co.uk

Following >>

@DAS.ALBUM

We’re captivated by the beauty of @das. album’s Instagram feed! Scroll on over for some picturesque and beautiful shots of breathtaking summer travels around the globe, dreamy snaps of the North East, vibrant cities and inspiring nature. So, if you’re looking for a little summer inspo, allow your senses to feast upon these dreamlike snapshots! instagram.com/das.album

Listening to >>

MY THERAPIST GHOSTED ME

To think that all of this started with one flaky therapist who refused to answer Joanne’s calls, would not open the door no matter how many times she knocked, and flat out refused to speak to her once she tracked him down as he was scattering his Aunt’s ashes… Well, who needs therapists when you have friends, and there isn’t a greater duo than Joanne McNally and Vogue Williams. Lots of laughter, honest advice and incredible stories for an entertaining summer. spotify.com

‘The Out-Laws’. The story follows Owen, husbandto-be, whose bank is held up by infamous ‘Ghost Bandits’ right before his wedding. With intimidating in-laws in town, Owen quickly comes to realise that his in-laws might just be culprits. The outstanding cast includes Nina Dobrev, Adam DeVine, Pierce Brosnan and Ellen Barkin delivering laughter, suspense and action. netflix.com

Reading >>

THE GOOD LIARS BY ANITA FRANK

Taking us back in time to the hot summer of 1914, where it all started. A boy vanishes never to be seen again, and with little information on what actually happened, the case is closed and forgotten. Six years later, an inspector visits the home of the Stilwell family with new evidence that leads to the boy’s case being reopened and all hell breaks loose. The Stilwell family find their already troubled lives in the middle of it, as they are placed under excruciating police scrutiny. If you’re looking for a thrilling summer read, this one is an addictive, ‘edge-of-your-seat’ mystery.

Living by >>

Pampering with >>

LA PRAIRIE CELLULAR ENERGISING MIST

Indulge your skin in a revitalising treat with La Prairie Cellular Energising Mist. This invigorating mist breathes life into your complexion, replenishing it with a burst of hydration and a radiant glow. Packed with potent antioxidants, it protects your skin from environmental stressors. Its lightweight formula makes it an ideal companion for on-the-go refreshment, no matter where this summer takes you. £135, harrods.com

From summer essentials, ones that we simply can’t live without, to far-flung dreamy escapes and summer skincare must-haves, Caroline Dask picks out 10 things we’re headover-heels for this summer…

“One must maintain a little bit of summer, even in the middle of winter.”

Henry David Thoreau

Make the most of the North East’s most loved destination.

Making your will: don’t leave everything to the taxman

Inheritance Tax is a large contributor to the UK Treasury; the Office for Budget Responsibility calculates that, in 2023-24, the Government will receive £7.6bn in Inheritance Tax. In terms of estate planning (i.e. writing your will), one of the biggest challenges is Inheritance Tax (“IHT”), as this can greatly decrease the value of your estate. The general rise in property prices in the UK means that more and more people are being affected.

Luxe chats to Tim Boardman, partner in the private client team at Muckle LLP, who explains the basics of Inheritance Tax and how it could affect you.

What is Inheritance Tax?

Estate duty, capital transfer tax and now IHT; some form of death tax has existed in the UK since the 19th Century and has since developed into something quite complex.

Whilst it’s possible for IHT to be charged on transfers of assets during a lifetime, it mostly arises on death.

IHT is charged on the value of someone’s estate when they die. The value is calculated by adding all assets together and deducting any liabilities. The assets will be anything to which the deceased was beneficially entitled, including their own assets, their share of jointly held assets and assets held in trust. Exemptions, allowances and/or reliefs are then applied to give the taxable estate. The tax is levied at 40%, although a lower rate of 36% is available, where 10% of the gross estate is left to charity.

How could IHT affect me?

The IHT threshold is currently £325,000 for individuals. If your estate is over £325,000, after you’ve added together assets and deducted liabilities, there could be an IHT bill on your death. IHT

is charged at 40% on everything over that amount.

Transfers between spouses and civil partners are exempt from IHT. You can inherit your spouse’s £325,000 allowance provided they’ve not already used it up (by making gifts to non-exempt beneficiaries or other lifetime gifts). Where spouses leave everything to each other, when the survivor dies, they can leave up to £650,000 without paying IHT.

What else do I need to know about IHT?

The Residence Nil-Rate Band allowance (which is complex, limited to certain circumstances and tightly linked to property ownership) could increase your £325,000 threshold by a further £175,000. You can inherit this additional allowance from your spouse too. Gifts to charities and some political parties are also exempt from IHT.

Considering your tax position is only one aspect of will planning. You’ll inevitably have other priorities to consider, which are no less important.

Seeking the right advice early on will help you to achieve what is right for you in the most tax-efficient way. After all, no one wants to leave everything to the taxman! Muckle’s private client team specialises in supporting high net-worth individuals, business owners and landowners on private legal matters.

For more information, or if you have any other queries on private legal matters, contact Tim using tim.boardman@muckle-llp.com or 0191 211 7976. muckle-llp.com

It’s all in the memory

As someone who grew up with a very artistic parent, I am naturally drawn to the arts. I admire the beauty of art and the blurry lines of creativity. I appreciate the fact that when it comes to creative work, there are no rules, no restrictions and no boundaries. It’s as if there is no right or wrong, which offers comfort in a society full of high expectations and rules to live by.

One of those rule breakers is Jim Edwards, a creative soul from Bangor, North Wales. I stumbled upon him quite accidentally, but once I did, I was fascinated with his paintings that depict iconic bridges and buildings of our beloved North East. I was curious to learn more about Jim and his

art and in getting to know him, I couldn’t help but notice the refreshing humility that surrounds him.

“I just see myself as an artist, a painter of cityscapes and landscapes,” he starts, when asked to introduce himself.

“Ever since I was a child, I knew I wanted to do something creative, but back then, I wasn’t really sure what that was. So I decided to become an artist by the process of elimination in terms of my future career. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to be, but I definitely knew what I did not want to do.

“Although creative work was always within me, as a child I preferred not to paint because I thought it was hard work. But what kind of life would it be without a challenge along the way? In my wish to overcome it, I picked up a brush and started painting. The rest is history.”

Looking through Jim’s portfolio I see familiar sights. Ones that I walk past almost every day, ones that became home to me four years ago, when I took a leap and decided to move to Newcastle. Although there have been ups and downs within my move, I have never denied the beauty of the city and the irresistible charm it carries, which is so very well reflected in Jim’s art.

“I’m mainly influenced by what’s around me. It just so happens that when I graduated with a degree in graphic design, I decided to join my partner in moving to Newcastle.

It’s a great city to paint. It’s hilly geography allows for an interesting juxtaposition between buildings and bridges.

“And compositionally, all the structures take place in the foreground and middle ground, which makes for a very interesting image.

Compared to a flat city like London,where the expanse of the city continues too far into the distance, and it’s easy to get stuck in background detail,” he adds.

When asked to describe his painting style, Jim mentions that it’s hard for him to reflect

on it, as he paints the only way he knows how and doesn’t try to fit within the realms of one specific style. I smile and think back to the boundaryless notion of Jim’s profession.

What attracts me the most to his creative work are the colours and the contrast between them. I’m curious to learn more about Jim’s personal creative process.

Caroline Dask chats with the immensely gifted artist and gallery owner, Jim Edwards, to discuss creative freedom and the process of selective memory painting…

Ever since I was a child, I knew I wanted to do something creative, but back then, I wasn’t really sure what that was

“It’s quite a long journey to get to the finish line. It all starts with inspiration and I find that it’s the idea of a painting that inspires me the most. Scribbling some thumbnail sketches, conjuring up a workable composition, visualising a completed painting,” he explains.

“Then I set off for a field trip, working out a location, positions of structures in a landscape. I usually make a mental map, as I work on a series of thumbnail sketches. Each scribbled box refines the initial idea, until a worthy composition takes hold.

“For the painting, I refer to the sketch as much as possible, but I never worry too much about the accuracy of it all, I paint from my memory. I let the compositions evolve from a combination of imagination and selective memory. I find it gives that

personal touch of my view of the city.

“Sometimes my paintings take way too long to finish. I find that the more paintings I do, the longer they take. It’s a battle. Sometimes the whole process can take up to a month. What takes the most amount of time are the layers of paint, to get the light levels right. Especially the cityscapes at night, to give the impression of structures glowing.”

Jim is no stranger to owning a studio, his previous artistic spaces were at The Biscuit Factory in Ouseburn: “57 Lime Street was my first combination of a studio and a gallery. It was a challenge, as there’s less time to paint and more time to be given to the gallery side of things. That being said, in my current studio, I have more space than before. I can separate the studio from the gallery, which is crucial. I’m able to paint and sell the work

from the same space and I get to meet and chat to a generally quite mixed audience that stumbles upon my gallery,” Jim smiles. Amidst an intriguing conversation, Jim shares insights into his latest artistic endeavours, and to my delight, references a charitable organisation that resonates deeply with me. As I witness his noble commitment, I find myself increasingly captivated by his admirable involvement.

“I’ve recently painted a giant Shaun The Sheep sculpture for an art trail across Newcastle. All the ‘Shauns’ will eventually be auctioned off to raise funds for St. Oswalds Hospice. I can’t comment on how my design will look just yet, as it’s supposed to be a surprise,” he adds excitedly.

While the visual masterpiece Jim is currently crafting remains concealed from our view, the sheer brilliance encapsulated in his previous work leads me to confidently anticipate an extraordinary creation. A testament to his unparalleled creativity, this forthcoming piece promises to be a captivating embodiment of artistic ingenuity. Like the rest of his work, we’re picturing an audacious colour palette, unapologetic vibrancy, and an undeniable ability to seize attention. Jim’s work exemplifies the essence of boundary-breaking artistryreminding us that art, above all else, should perpetually defy limits. jimedwardspaintings.com Instagram.com/jimedwardsartist

bathrooms Beautiful

Finding a bathroom style that balances function and form while fitting the requirements of your household can be daunting. Heritage Bathrooms make it simple. We have worked with a leading interior designer to curate five different bathroom looks with suggested products to simplify the selection process.

Colour splash

Plant power

The perfect backdrop to family life, Colour Splash combines colour and pattern to create a bright and happy mood. This maximalist style brings joy to a space furnished with practical pieces that are made to endure, such as our Hatton basin and acrylic baths. Whether you’re decorating an ensuite or a space under the stairs, no space is too small to transform with these bright patterns and colours.

If you are seeking a sanctuary to retreat to after a long day, our plant power look creates a soothing space to unwind.

By combining deliberately modern sanitaryware, such as the Edvin Bath, with natural colours and materials, such as linen, rattan and wood, this style oozes a sense of calmness. Plants are the finishing touch to this space, adding to that overall feeling of harmony and warmth that will leave you feeling stress-free. Whether you have a large bathroom or smaller cloakroom, a period or modern property, a taste for colour or for calmness, you can mix and match all our products to create a space perfectly tailored to your desires and needs.

Pure and simple

Perfect for a busy household with a modern property, this style of bathroom is a vision of practicality, order, and calm. This tranquil space is complete with practical pieces that maximise on storage and keep the space clutter-free and easy to clean, from the Lynton wall hung furniture range to the beautiful freestanding Pomeroy bath and Stamford toilet. Have the ideal start and end to every day with this beautifully calm space.

How can you bring an unstuffy, modern twist to a traditional bathroom? The country house look is the perfect blend of old and new, creating a Victorian-inspired look which fits in with family life.

If keeping the space up to date is a concern, invest in a hero piece or two, such as our Wilton vanity unit and Tilbury claw foot bath, paired with the Trinity exposed dual control shower.

Country house

Our Parisian Chic look mixes timeless pieces such as the Buckingham Bath with graphic patterned tiles and Art Deco-influenced lighting. This glamourous range combines character and practicality making it the perfect style for a Victorian townhouse or a modern family home. Feel chic with this Parisian look, furnished with the Buckingham cast iron bath and Wilton vanity unit to maximise luxury and practicality. The Stanmer LED mirror is the finishing touch to this style, creating the illusion of space and adding that extra sprinkle of grandeur. Et voila!

Parisian chic

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Inspiring a generation

BT Sport Presenter, Lynsey Hipgrave, is an inspirational role model, paving the way for young women looking to make a career in the sports industry. In a recent chat with Nicole Wood, she opens up about the difficulties of working as a woman in sports, growing up in Newcastle and her predictions for the women’s World Cup this August…

To think that once upon a time, women couldn’t even have a career in journalism let alone within the sports industry, it’s refreshing to see how far we’ve come. Although that being said, it’s not been an easy ride and for some, it still isn’t.

I think it’s fair and quite accurate to say, we’ve still got a while to go, but we’re certainly heading in the right direction. Now, when the younger generation switch on their TVs, they see women presenting on mainstream channels for big sporting events. For them, it’s ‘normal’, it inspires, encourages and allows them to dream and believe that could be them one day. For Lynsey Hipgrave, that wasn’t the case. Growing up, she didn’t have many of those role models and had to rely on her own knowledge and determination to get her where she is today.

“As a woman in the industry I think it’s been a longer journey to get where I am and I’ve had to fight for my place and work even harder to prove myself, but I always knew I was capable and knowledgeable,” Lynsey opens up.

“The opportunities weren’t always there to start with and I had few female role models aside from Gabby Logan, Hazel Irvine and Eleanor Oldroyd, who were an inspiration to me. It has only been in the last few years that women are well represented in the industry and I now work alongside some brilliant female pundits, commentators, directors and producers, with women hosting top level sport on all the major channels. I think it’s much easier for young women coming into the industry now as there are more opportunities, more platforms and crucially more role models. Unless you see other women doing it then you might not believe it’s a real possibility for you,” she adds.

Lynsey Hipgrave, broadcaster for BT Sportwhich will be rebranding to TNT Sports this July - works alongside some talented ex players including the likes of Rio Ferdinand, Peter Crouch, Joe Cole and Joleon Lescott, all of which whom appear to have nothing but admiration and respect for Lynsey. During our chat, I tell her how as a viewer, the chemistry between her and the pundits is excellent; they always appear to be having a laugh and there is a tonne of mutual respect.

“I genuinely love the people I work with and I’m really glad to hear that it comes across on air. I spend most Saturdays with them and we all get on brilliantly. There are no divas, everyone’s just laid back, relaxed and very easy to work with. They’re just good guys who also happen to be legends who have played at the very highest level. They all have an ‘ask me anything’ attitude which makes my life very easy. There’s a lot of ribbing but we all dish it out and we can all take it,” she smiles.

To hear that what we see on screen is the same as what goes on behind the scenes is music to my ears, echoing my thought that we really have come a long way. We go on to discuss how sometimes a lot of the hate for women working in this male-dominated industry can actually come from angry fans on social media who don’t always agree with a woman’s opinion, something Lynsey discussed in a campaign to stop online hate for BT Sport back in 2021. But learning to block out the trolls, staying true to what she believes in and having confidence in the knowledge she holds, is what keeps Lynsey driving forward.

come true. I loved watching us this season, we’ve just been so consistently good from start to finish and absolutely deserved that top four finish. Yes we’ve been solid at the back but I’ve been so impressed with the intensity and the way we take the game to teams, no matter who we’re playing. Not a single team would go into a game against Newcastle now and expect an easy ride and we haven’t been able to say that for a long time. I’m such a big fan of Eddie Howe and on the occasions that I have met him he has come across as classy, considerate and intelligent. He’s a fantastic representative of our club and has shown everyone what a top class coach he is, with the improvement in so many players testament to that. I’m so excited for the transfer window and for next season to see how we build on this. I’ll have the popcorn ready and be glued to the Champions League draw as I’m sure we’ll have a couple of glamour ties in there to get us all going potty,” she laughs.

“I grew up in Dunston and Whickham, but when I was 18 I left for Leeds University where I studied broadcast journalism which was the starting point for my career working in radio.

“In the early days I co-hosted the breakfast show on Galaxy 102 in Manchester before moving to London to pursue my ambition of working in sports broadcasting at BBC Radio 5 Live. I then moved into TV with Setanta Sports and BeIn Sports before signing for BT Sport, which will shortly be rebranding as TNT sports,” she adds.

Lynsey is a born and bred Geordie lass, who always had ambitions of working within the radio and television industry. Growing up, sports - and football in general - was a huge part of her childhood. She tells me trips to St. James’ Park with her dad and brother were a permanent fixture in her calendar.

“I grew up obsessed with football watching the great entertainers and was always going to matches with my Dad and older brother. I always wanted to work in radio and television so to be able to combine that with my passion and love for football is a dream come true. Working on the Premier League has been a career highlight - it is without doubt the best league in the world! The quality of the matches and storylines have you gripped every single week,” she says.

“I’m still NUFC obsessed. I couldn’t have scripted it any better could I?! Fronting the Premier League coverage in the season Newcastle make it back to the Champions League after 20 years has been a dream

“I’m happily settled with my husband and step daughter in West Sussex, but the rest of my family still live in Newcastle so I visit as much as I can. Newcastle United will always be a great love of mine,” she laughs. The love Lynsey has for her job is evident, her face lights up when discussing some of those ‘pinch me’ moments: “I was lucky enough to work on the World Cup in Brazil for ESPN so I spent six wonderful weeks in Rio. I have also loved presenting Champions League and Europa League games, which have taken me to some of the best cities and stadiums in Europe. Presenting a match in front of the 10 thousand strong Yellow Wall in Dortmund literally gave me goosebumps! Jermaine Jenas and I couldn’t hear a word we were saying to each other but we didn’t care, it was all about the atmosphere. London 2012 is also etched in my memory as an event that was non-stop, frenetic fun and a privilege to be part of. Broadcasting live on ‘Super Saturday’ was full of special moments I’ll never forget. I’ve worked so hard to get here but I know how lucky I am and regularly have ‘I love my job’ moments.

“I’ve been hosting Premier League football every Saturday for the last year, which has been a career highlight. It’s a fantastic team and the atmosphere on match days is electric. I definitely feel lucky to work alongside great ex pro’s like Rio, Peter and Joe and we always have a good laugh. Our WhatsApp group before and after games can be very lively,” she laughs.

“I’m so excited to continue in the same >>

It has only been in the last few years that women are well represented in the industry and I now work alongside some brilliant female pundits, commentators, directors and producers

role when the season starts again this August. We’ll be broadcasting 52 games over the season and I can’t wait to be back on the road every week soaking up the atmosphere and following what’s bound to be another compelling season. I will also be covering some European games and keeping a very close eye on Newcastle’s Champions League adventure.

“Watching live football every week and calling it work is a feeling like no other. Also the teamwork and team spirit on match days. I work alone a lot when I’m doing my research and preparation so I just love being part of such a big team when it comes to the live broadcasts. Just like team sports there are so many people involved in the coverage and I work with some of the very best both in front of and behind the camera. Everyone’s role is so vital, from the runners to the directors, and you can feel the excitement and the anticipation building just before we go on air with everyone determined to do their bit to make sure the show goes as smoothly as possible,” she explains.

Lynsey is an absolute delight to chat with, I could speak to her for hours. As we discuss all things journalism, making it in a male-dominated industry and our love for Newcastle, we move the topic on to women’s sports and the excitement we have for the upcoming women’s World Cup.

“The women’s game in this country has grown so much and it’s great to see that progress. The Euro’s win was pivotal and the FA Cup final was just another statement and another marker of how far we’ve come, but

of course I think there’s still a long way to go. The interest is clearly there and now it’s about keeping on growing the profile and making sure that all girls have the opportunity to play should they want to, with more money filtering down into the grassroots game. What gives me lots of hope that the trajectory will continue is the amount of kids and young people at matches now because they’re the players and the audiences of the future,” Lynsey expresses.

of the matches and fully getting behind the team - and that happened all over the country. The players all said afterwards that this is just the start so hopefully we can keep the momentum going. It’s a bigger stage and the injuries add extra pressure and probably lower expectations a bit. An England v USA final would be the dream as they’re on different sides of the draw,” she adds.

When looking to escape from all things ‘camera, lights, action’, Lynsey finds herself heading back up north to spend time with her family: “I love coming home. My favourite thing to do is just catch up with family and spend time at my Mam and Dad’s. If I’m there on a weekend I love going to see my nephews playing football. I also love walking along the Quayside on a Sunday if the weather is good or having a drive down to Tynemouth and walking along the seafront. My Mam and Dad recently took me to the Lit and Phil library beside Central Station which blew my mind, it’s such a hidden gem. I can’t believe I had walked past it so many times and had no idea it was there!

and Laos for a month, which was the most incredible experience,” she adds.

Lynsey is a prime example of what hard work and determination look like. Before saying goodbye, we revert back to discussing childhood dreams and what it would be like to go back and tell those little dreamers ‘we made it’. Work hard, don’t be scared to try something new and believe that knowledge is power is just some of the wonderful advice Lynsey gives to those looking to make it in the sports industry.

“I’m really looking forward to the women’s World Cup and can’t wait to see if the team can push on after the Euro’s which was a huge success on and off the pitch. The Lionesses changed the perception of women’s football in this country and everyone got caught up in it. As a small example I watched my husband getting into the games, being impressed by the quality

“When I’m not working or heading back up north, it’s usually fitness and travel that takes up most of my time. It usually involves a gym or yoga class. I love travellingeveryone at work calls me Judith Chalmers because any opportunity myself and my husband get we head off on another adventure. We had a long break during the pause for the World Cup so we took the opportunity to behave like backpacking teenagers and travelled through Thailand

“My advice to someone looking to start a career in sports journalism would be to go for it! Get as much experience as you possibly can and keep knocking on doors until somebody gives you an opportunity. Often it’s a case of getting a foot in the door so you’re in a position where you can work your way up so you have to be prepared to put in the groundwork. Try out different roles, there are so many other jobs in the industry that I wasn’t even aware of when I was studying and it’s so important to understand and appreciate the roles of everybody on the team. For me preparation is so important because with live sport you just never know when something will go wrong or change and you could end up ripping the whole running order up and filling for an hour. Oh and as Joe Cole always says to us just before we go on air ‘don’t forget to enjoy it’,” she smiles.

A true inspiration offering a beacon of light to those looking to find their way in a career path that defies all odds. Lynsey Hipgrave is a name us folk from the North East are exceptionally proud of.

The Lionesses changed the perception of women’s football in this country and everyone got caught up in it

All you have to do is dream...

www.seymourshome.com

An outstanding eclectic home and linen store that exudes luxury living. Here you will find everything from designer paint and furnishings, to lavish curtains and blinds. All curated by Seymour’s personal interior design team.

Off to the races

Experience the epitome of race day fashion with Metrocentre’s exquisite collection. From elegant dresses, dapper suits, and head-turning fascinators, it’s your time to shine and leave a lasting impression this summer...

Timeless treasures

Nestled along the breathtaking Northumberland coast lies Salt & Co, a jewellery brand that marries the beauty of silver with the allure of the sea. Martha Gothorp, the talented owner and designer, has turned her childhood dream into a reality, crafting exquisite pieces that capture the essence of Northumberland's coastal charm. After chatting with a friend who had purchased several pieces from Martha, I decided to find out more and had the pleasure of sitting down with her to explore the origins, creative process, and timeless vision behind Salt & Co.

"I grew up on the Northumberland coast, surfing, kayaking, and beachcombing, and have always loved anything 'shiny'," Martha reminisces, her eyes sparkling with nostalgia.

"Salt & Co. was a dream I had as a child.

I was captivated by the idea of 'she sells seashells on the seashore,' and now I quite literally do - sterling silver ones.

I think I was always destined to make jewellery. When I was younger, I would always be making friendship bracelets and jewellery for my family out of beads. It’s always been something I’ve loved doing. That combined with my love for the sea, it just works,” Martha explains. The birth of Salt & Co stemmed from Martha's deep affection for silver and the sea. From an early age, she harboured a passion for jewellery-making and dreamed of one day opening her own shop. To her surprise and delight, that dream became a reality in February 2022 when she opened the doors of her shop in Amble, located in the new Harbour Master’s building, Coquet House, conveniently nestled next to the fish shack. Martha

admits: "I still have to pinch myself every morning as I walk through the door."

The mesmerising beauty of Northumberland's coastline serves as Martha's constant muse. She spends as much time as she can on the beach and in the sea, seeking inspiration for her designs. Her Northumbrian shell collection is a direct result of her love for the area. Martha scours different beaches, collecting shells that she then casts into 925 sterling silver, fashioning them into necklaces and bracelets - true keepsakes that embody the spirit of the coast.

“Northumberland’s beautiful coastline is always my inspiration. I spend as much time as I can on the beach and in the sea and always come back to my studio with some kind of new design idea to work on,” she explains.

Before establishing her physical shop, Martha successfully operated Salt & Co online for seven years. However, opening a bricks-and-mortar store was a dream

she never thought would materialise. Coquet House, a new building, presented its fair share of challenges, including an unexpected lockdown. But Martha asserts that the wait and journey were undoubtedly worthwhile: "The incredible view outside my shop doors and the wonderful people I've met along the way make it all worth it. Not to mention, I get to walk into a job I love every day," she says with a genuine smile.

Every piece of jewellery created by Martha is meticulously designed and handcrafted in her Northumberland studio using 925 sterling silver. Driven by her passion for the environment, Martha proudly shares that she now works with 70% recycled sterling silver and has set a goal to reach 100% by 2025. Her commitment to sustainability shines through in every aspect of Salt & Co's creations.

Among all her designs, Martha holds a special fondness for the Northumbrian shells collection: "I love my Northumbrian shells. They're something I truly enjoy creating and are a true labour of love.

Though the process is time-consuming, the end result - a piece of nature preserved forever in sterling silver - makes it all worthwhile,” she shares, a sparkle of pride in her eyes. Reflecting on her favourite piece, Martha's face lights up as she describes the ‘Wave’ bangle. This particular design holds

significant meaning for her, as it was the piece that marked the beginning of her creative journey.

"My logo is based on the wave of my wave ring and wave bangle, and it will always have a special place in my heart," Martha confesses, clearly fond of the sentimental value it carries.

Unlike many who chase fashion trends and embrace fast fashion, Martha remains steadfast in her commitment to crafting timeless pieces.

"I have to admit I am not one to follow fashion trends and fast fashion. I create pieces that I personally love and wear on all my adventures," she states with confidence. Her desire to create high-quality jewellery that withstands the test of time is driven by her own attachment to her creations. Martha reveals that she never takes off her jewellery, emphasising the importance of maintaining the utmost quality in her designs.

When it comes to customer favourites, Salt & Co has its share of standouts. Martha reveals that her stud earrings, beautifully presented in a charming bottle, are a best-seller. The packaging adds a unique touch, making them a popular choice for gifts. However, Martha's most timeless piece, according to her, is the signature chain bracelet. Chunky and elegant, these bracelets possess an enduring allure that transcends fleeting trends and promises to remain stylish for years to come. For Martha, the true joy lies in the act of creation itself. "I love making things! Working in sterling silver and creating something from nothing is really satisfying for me," she exclaims. Locked inside her studio, accompanied by her favourite music, Martha immerses herself in the process, allowing her passion to guide her hands. As Salt & Co continues to flourish, Martha Gothorp remains an unwavering force, driven by her love for Northumberland's stunning coastline and a deep respect for quality craftsmanship. With each meticulously crafted piece, she forges a connection between the wearer and the beauty of the sea, ensuring that Salt & Co's treasures are cherished for generations to come.

saltandco.co.uk

Martha Gothorp is the creative force behind Northumberland's beloved jewellery brand, Salt & Co. In a recent chat with Nicole Wood, she explains why designing jewellery has always been her passion…

It’s all in the care

So far, summer has definitely been a bit of a mixed bag when it comes to the weather. Don’t get me wrong - when it was nice, it was very nice, but it never seemed to last that long. I do hope that everybody gets to spend some time away this year. Holidays abroad seemed to be back on track, with everybody visiting their favourite hot spots and living their best lives.

You can never underestimate the power of the sun, especially in recent years when climate change has become so serious.

Everywhere seems to be that much hotter. Most of us know how important it is to use the right skincare with a high SPF to protect our skin from the harmful rays of the sun, but many people tend to forget about caring for their hair while basking in the sunshine. Trust me, it can be just as harmful. Faded colour, dry ends, and brittle lengths are all things that happen when your hair is overexposed to the sun.

It’s a funny thing! Most people invest in good hair care and really look after their hair for the majority of the year. However, for

some unknown reason, once they go to a place where the sun can be very harmful, caring for their hair doesn’t seem to be at the top of the priority list.

It’s crazy how many people visit the salon towards the end of summer and complain about the general poor condition of their hair - colour that hasn’t lasted, dry ends, and overall hair dissatisfaction. Bizarrely, people attribute it to factors like a bad diet, hormones, or using the wrong shampoo for their hair, completely forgetting that spending two weeks or longer in the sun alone can result in poor hair quality.

Now, don’t get me wrong, you don’t need to jet off to places like Mykonos or Dubai for your hair to suffer. Your hair can be damaged just as easily by spending time in your garden at home, spending the weekend out in the sunshine without covering your hair or using the right protection from UV rays.

It’s quite common for a hairdresser to hear from a client, “No, I haven’t been in the sun, I haven’t been abroad this year,” but simply being outdoors in the heat during a run of hot days can still have the same effect, especially on hair colour. Everyone wonders

why their hair colour doesn’t seem to last in the summer months, why the toner fades or the shade changes, but it doesn’t happen in the winter months. Funny, isn’t it?

One of the most common complaints a hairdresser or hair colourist receives from clients throughout the summer is about colour fade, with blondes becoming brassy and brunettes turning too warm. The answer is simple: overexposure to the sun’s rays affects your hair more than you realise. Hair can still be exposed to the sun without suffering all the damaging effects if you invest in great UV protection products and ultra-moisturising treatments to use throughout the summer. By doing so, you can definitely minimise the negative impact the sun can have on your hair. Speak to your hairdresser or colourist and ask about the best products to use. This way, you can enter next year and the following summer feeling more confident and reassured that your hair won’t be left feeling dry and dull come autumn.

For those of you who have experienced your hair becoming lighter and have enjoyed being a little blonder, why not keep the

blonde tones as you move into autumn and winter? Blondes aren’t just for summer and can look equally gorgeous during the colder months ahead. It’s all about choosing the right tone for the season and, ultimately, finding the perfect shade to suit your complexion.

For luscious locks and vibrant hues, investing in your haircare should be at the top of your priority list this summer…

Saint Belle’s summer collection has landed

Long days and balmy weather are an excellent reason to invest in some Luxury Linen. At Saint Belle we have just launched our new ‘Collection de le Mer’. Essential elegance runs through the collection in the form of wrap dresses and chic separates – it was a joy to design and you are invited to shop at saintbelle.co.uk. Prices range from £100 - £225.

TREND WATCH

with Isabella Dryden, founder of sustainable luxury fashion brand, Saint Belle Lighter layers, holiday buys and a new Saint Belle collection…

Elegant cover ups

Whether you’re at the beach or by the pool this summer, consider elegant cover-ups. The chicest way to give your skin a break from the sun, throw-on pieces deliver an instant, effortless outfit. I love Zimmermann for their bohemian look and natural fabrics. £215, zimmermann.com

Bags of style

While a large basket tote will always have a place in my wardrobe, the appeal of a more compact design lies in versatility. Capturing the same sense of escape, a shoulder style will add polish to your holiday wardrobe and transition neatly from sightseeing or beach-hopping to alfresco dinners and cocktails. I love Loewe’s trimmed bucket bag for a designer statement this summer. £425, loewe.com

Go for bold

Juicy colours work beautifully when the sun shines, and tangerine tones feel particularly fresh right now. Look to add Hunza G’s ‘Juno’ bikini to your holiday suitcase. Crafted in the brand’s signature seersucker fabric, that is locally made and dyed in the UK.

£155, hunzag.com

A

SILKE Heatless Curler

As hard as it may be, it’s best to reduce the use of hair tools as much as possible - especially in warmer climes. Heat might just be the worst thing you can do to your hair and once it’s exposed to too much of it, the damage is done and it will take years to correct. Instead of reaching for that curling wand, choose a great alternative, like our new holy grail, SILKE Heatless Curler. Made out of silk, this dreamy curler will give you the healthiest and bounciest curls you can imagine - and as it’s an overnight tool, it saves you time in the morning. Win, win! This nifty tool comes with a custom clip, silk ties and reusable cosmetic bag. silkelondon.com, £42

Beauty: update

Summer Hair Essentials

NOURISHING LOCKS >> Rossano Ferretti Parma Regenerating Treatment

It’s a well-known fact that the sun has a drying effect on both our skin and our hair. To tackle the latter, you will need a deep nourishing hair mask and we’ve got just the ticket. Rossano Ferretti’s Regenerating Treatment is packed with hair-loving ingredients including shea butter, olive and keratin proteins which help to replenish, regenerate and hydrate even the most sun-damaged hair. rossanoferretti.com, £90

REFRESHING TOUCH >> GISOU Gis Honey Infused Hair Perfume

A luxurious and captivating scent that takes your hair care routine to new heights. This exquisite hair perfume is more than just a fragrance; it’s lifestyle indulgence. Enriched with finest honey, known for its nourishing properties, it will leave your hair smelling divine while giving you that extra hydration boost you need on hot summer days. The elegant glass bottle will also add a touch of sophistication to your dressing table. A few sprays and you’re ready for the day ahead. harrods.com, £64

CONDITIONED BEAUTY >> Milk_shake Integrity Nourishing Shampoo and Conditioner

A good summer hair care routine always starts with the basics. It’s important to get the simple steps right and not neglect them! Whatever foundation you build with, the first step of your haircare routine sets the tone for how well other products, such as serums and leave-ins, work together. To achieve the perfect harmony and maintain healthy and hydrated hair, opt for Milk_shake Integrity Nourishing Shampoo and Conditioner. Ingredients such as argan oil and murumuru butter will make sure your hair gets everything it needs to look its best this summer. milkshakehaircare.co.uk, from £18.49

SUN PROTECTING

ESSENTIAL >>

Balmain Hair Couture Sun Protection Spray

A good sun protection spray should be an essential part of your summer hair care routine.

This Balmain Hair Couture Sun Protection Spray not only leaves your hair looking shiny, silky and smooth, it also provides a protective layer to make sure your hair colour is safe from the sun. A few sprays will give you that ‘just left the salon’ look that we all desire! next.co.uk, £38

SILKY SMOOTH SCALP >> JVN Pre-Wash Scalp Oil

Hair oiling is the latest trend in hair care and for a good reason. It has a lot of great benefits - it keeps your scalp hydrated, promotes hair growth and soothes skin. Hemisqualane helps to strengthen hair from root to tip, bisabolol helps to sooth and calm, and rosemary extract has been praised for its power to stimulate hair follicles. Going that extra mile this summer for your hair will reap benefits throughout the seasons.

jvnhair.co.uk, £25

ANTI-FRIZZ HERO >> Color Wow Dream Coat Spray

It’s a bright summer day, you’re getting ready to meet your friends for cocktails, you spend hours getting ready, but the minute you step outside, the carefully crafted curls just seem to lose their bounce. Sound familiar? Oh, the humidity! But fear not, the Color Wow Dream Coat Spray is a lifesaver in fighting humidity and frizzy hair. It’s been praised by celebrity stylists and is already trending all over social media. After washing your hair, drench it in Color Wow Dream Coat Spray and enjoy the longlasting results. uk.colorwowhair.com, £27

Get ready to turn heads this summer with flawless hair. Say goodbye to sundamaged strands and hello to luscious locks thanks to our pick of must-have haircare products…

Healing powers

Recently launched in March 2023, Sea the Love is a new sustainable skincare brand combining the healing power of the sea with skin-loving ingredients to create dreamy formulas our skin will thank us for. Inspired by her hometown of Whitley Bay, her love of being by the sea and how the ocean helped her in a skin crisis of her own, Annabelle Hill came up with the idea to create a vegan-friendly skincare range using the sea’s natural ingredients to soothe, nourish and rejuvenate the skin.

“I graduated from Northumbria University in November 2021 with a marketing degree, but the initial idea was actually born several years before that. When I was in sixth form, for one of our projects, we were given a fake budget and had to produce a business plan. I’ve always been into skincare and I’ve lived in Whitley Bay my whole life and have always been obsessed with the sea, and this is where the initial idea was born,” Annabelle begins.

“After finishing the project, I always thought it was a pretty cool idea, but I never really thought it was going to become something. My dad used to always say ‘we should totally do this one day’ and I’d agree, but nothing ever came of it. The whole time I was at university, I kept getting this nagging thought in the back of my mind reminding me of the idea and every now and then I’d see opportunities come up and I’d always think ‘oh I should apply for that’ and I’d pull

the original plan out and start adding to it, but never properly pursued it. Then after graduation, I got Covid so there was no going out and celebrating in the gorgeous weather for me. Spending the whole week isolating, I decided to work on the business plan again because I had nothing else to do,” she explains.

“It wasn’t until I was offered a job from my work placement, that I actually decided to take the plunge. For some reason I just didn’t want to take the job. It was so silly because of course after graduating you should take a job that’s offered to you, but something in my mind just wouldn’t let me and I think it’s because deep down, I knew starting this business was always what I wanted to do. So I did it and registered the business in November 2021 and the rest is history,” she adds.

After noticing the benefits the sea was having on her own skin, Annabelle decided to carry out some research on what ingredients were working wonders for her.

“I feel like I’ve always felt a connection with the sea. It’s always on my doorstep and I’ve always loved being down by the waves. I think it’s common knowledge that the sea is good for our skin, we’re just not quite sure why. But for me personally, whenever I go on holiday, I always notice that my skin just looks and feels amazing. I remember being in Greece when I was around 13-years-old and I had the whole prepubescent, skin not 100 percent type of look going on. I didn’t get acne on my face, but I suffered really

badly with it on my arms and my back. I was so embarrassed by it. This week away in Greece, I spent the majority of my time in the sea, scrubbing my arms down and it cleared up so much. That was my first experience when I thought ‘whoa, the sea has really helped my skin’ and I think that’s where the inspiration behind the products came from.

A day cream, night cream, cleanser and serum are the four products which make up this exciting new range, all of which are infused with two main marine-based actives including organic seawater extract that’s been clinically proven to improve the health of the skin, as well as some of our holy grail skincare heroes: hyaluronic acid and niacinamide.

“Creating sustainable vegan-friendly products was a big thing for me when I was searching for someone to make the products. I wanted to avoid harsh chemical and synthetic ingredients such as parabens, sulfates and silicones and harnessed as many natural ingredients as possible,” she explains.

“In every product there’s seawater extract containing marine magnesium and minerals, clinically proven to enhance skin health from a cellular, molecular, and genetic perspective. Even better, it is certified as organic and sustainably sourced! It actually comes from the coast of Port Oriel only metres from the sea shore in the picturesque village of Clogherhead seven miles east of Drogheda, County Louth, Ireland. The only

Sea the Love is a brand-new, marine-based skincare range combining the benefits of the ocean with some of the beauty industry’s leading skincare ingredients. Nicole Wood chats to Annabelle Hill, the brains behind the business…

I’ve always been into skincare and I’ve lived in Whitley Bay my whole life and have always been obsessed with the sea, and this is where the inital idea was born

deep sea magnesium and mineral extract to be granted protected designation of origin (PDO) by the EU commission since the foundation of the EU. The extraction process is such a cool story as it comes from a designated protection site. So, this is the key ingredient that’s used in all products and then I try to pick another sea-based ingredient to target more specific skin needs. For example, in the night cream we have a cool ingredient called green microalgae which is proven to increase cellular turnover double time. The whole idea is that when it’s used at night time, when the skin is repairing itself; when they've done testing on this ingredient, what you would normally see after eight hours sleep, this does it in four hours. So, it actually accelerates skin renewal and repair during sleep thanks to night-healing enzymes that boost DNA repair. It also has antioxidant properties which can increase firmness, boosts radiance, and works to reduce wrinkles,” she adds.

Despite being a new brand in quite a crowded market, Sea the Love is already proving to be a success with high rating reviews flowing in, commenting on how much the products have helped with different skin concerns, as well as leaving a fresh, nourished and radiant complexion.

“The day cream, which launched in June, is packed with sea fennel which works to boost radiance, perfect for during the day to create a glowy look. The Beachy Clean Melting Cleanser has winged kelp, grapeseed and

a big love of Annabelle’s which is why it was extremely important to do everything in her power to make helping our marine life a staple part of the business.

“Protecting our oceans is a huge thing for me. I’ve signed up to something called Work for Good and what they do is help smaller businesses connect with charities. The Marine Conservation Society was the perfect partnership for the brand, and 50 pence from every sale will go to the charity and over time I would definitely like to increase the donation amount, but as a startup it was the most feasible amount. I’d love to work with other charities too,” she tells me. As well as coming with heaps of benefits for the skin, Sea the Love stands out from the crowd for its mantra, something Annbelle came up with to promote self love, self care and self acceptance. In a society ruled by social media, filtered photos and unrealistic beauty standards, it’s a breath of fresh air to meet a young woman in business doing her part to make everyone feel beautiful, confident and valid regardless of what society tells us.

“For me, especially during Covid because we all had more time on our hands, I really enjoyed taking time with my skincare. I would sit down and actually think about what I was doing, spending time with the products and the way I would apply them and I started to notice how much more comfortable I was becoming with my appearance. I think in today’s society, there’s so much pressure from the likes

SUNSHINE STATE OF MIND

We are not our emotions

blueberry oil which are really great for hydration. And our newly launched Seaweed Super Serum combines two unique red seaweeds, niacinamide, sodium hyaluronate, marine magnesium and minerals, all of which are super hydrating,” Annabelle explains.

“When it came to the scent, deciding whether or not to have one was a difficult decision. The cleanser, night and day cream all have a very clean, fresh, spa-like scent, using essential oils only and no synthetic fragrances. Whereas the serum is completely fragrance free. So, I suppose it’s the best of both. I’m pleased with the decision and have had lots of great feedback which is amazing,” she says.

To Annabelle, Sea the Love is more than just a skincare business. It’s a brand she’s proud of, a product created to help others which combines her skill set, her dream and her passion. When putting the business plan into action, one thing which had to remain in every step of the process was that she would do no harm to the ocean. The sea is

of social media to be and look a certain way. I have two younger sisters and seeing them grow up in this social media dominated world is awful. I know what insecurities I had at their age and I don’t want them to feel that way, especially with the added online pressures. That’s why we came up with the mantra of ‘hear the love, feel the love, see the love’. You hear the love by looking at yourself in the mirror and saying ‘I love you, you are beautiful, you are amazing’, you feel the love by applying the product and take your time doing so, you don’t just slap it on, you feel that love you’re giving to your skin. And then finally, you see the love because by hearing it and feeling it, you’ll see it,” Annabelle says with a smile beaming across her face.

Sea the Love is certainly making waves in the beauty industry already and we can most definitely see why. With tons of exciting ideas in the pipeline, we can’t wait to see what’s next from this inspiring entrepreneur. seathelove.co.uk

Teresa Peters, our Luxe Life and Executive Coach, facilitates workshops and leadership development programmes and she recently trained as an Emotions Practitioner so that she can coach emotions ethically. Emotions are a flow of energy, and we all have them, but it doesn’t mean they are us.

As we step into summer, we know what usual health rules apply in our efforts to feel well, through good sleep, regular exercise, and by eating well. What else can we do to give ourselves a muchneeded boost? It’s not just down to our physical health but our mental wellbeing. The word emotion is derived from the Latin word ‘emovere’ meaning to move out or move through.

The emotions that we feel might energise us, they may deplete our energy, or they might replenish our energy.

Our mind is connected to our body and unresolved emotion can show up in physical form. How many of you have experienced butterflies in your tummy? Is this down to anxiety, nerves, excitement, or a challenge? Notice that these opposite emotions can be interlinked so when we are feeling nervous, we could also be feeling excited. We get to choose how we feel!

When we are anxious our body gets revved up to act on threat. Our brain sends signals to create more energy, by sending more sugar into the bloodstream and then our muscles tighten. If we feel anxious, this can be draining and lead to stress and overwhelm.

It is at this point I’d like to emphasise WE ARE NOT OUR EMOTIONS. Here’s an exercise for you which focuses on mental wellbeing rather than just on physical health:

I invite you to say to yourself ‘I AM anxious’.

How do you feel about being anxious?

What happens in your body, physically, when you say ‘I AM anxious’?

Now let’s revisit this.

Start by saying ‘I feel anxious about… b ut luckily…’

By reframing the emotion of ‘anxiety’ our physical, mind and body reaction shifts.

Now ask yourself. How do you feel now?

Where in your body do you see or feel it?

We can in fact change the way we feel about ‘anxiousness’ and we are not the

emotion. Be your own best friend. Place the emotion in front of you objectively and ask yourself, ‘How am I feeling right now?’ Many of us try to distract ourselves resulting in a disconnect between our mind and body. Rather than making a coffee or picking up the phone to distract ourselves, through instant gratification, I encourage you to stop and reflect. We need to allow the energy to flow through our bodies. Emotions are unmet needs so If we perceive an emotion to be bad, we need to make time to be more like a ‘hippo’ and roll in the mud bath for a bit. Clients often come to me for coaching to become a more confident leader, more self-knowing or to feel more connected with themselves and others. Emotions are fundamental to this. Our feelings are sparked by emotions and shaped by the stories we tell ourselves, our beliefs, and our memories. By noticing our physical state or by acknowledging our emotions we can see these as useful indicators to help us enjoy life more. We can choose how we feel about our emotions. We can choose how we respond to our emotions. How many of us are tuned into other people’s emotions and are ignoring our own needs? How many of us have goals but we are disconnected with the emotion and therefore lack motivation? How many of us have an emotional experience that doesn’t align with how we think we should feel?

My core value and my fingerprint are connected. Connection to myself, to others and the wider world. I write this sitting in the garden on a Friday evening, listening to the birds sing and noticing the calmness as the sun goes down. I feel relaxed knowing that I may make an impact on at least one of you reading this. No more saying ‘I am anxious’ or ‘I’m not confident’. This summer we are changing the narrative.

E-Motion or energy in motion has a purpose which is to flow. Emotions are neither good nor bad. We need to acknowledge that we all have emotions and it’s a universal experience. They provide us with a rich source of learning. What have you learned reading this column today?

*Source – some of this content has been taken from my emotions coaching course with igcompany.

Life on the farm

Simon and Karen Phillips update us on the latest happenings from the fabulous Linnels Farm and what’s at the forefront of their minds this summer…

stunning oilseed rape fields, they look amazing; our bees have been dizzy with excitement, well actually I think they have been buzzed up on the nectar, the bees were certainly well over the limit. Oilseed rape is truly a mass-flowering crop offering a large quantity of nectar for bees, albeit in concentrated time periods. And what has made it worse for us is that the bees’ navigation line to this ‘pot of nectar’ from their hives follows the ridge line of the barn, our holiday let, in a direct line to their nectar, the barn is their route map. It was like bee Heathrow here. So we have had to move the bee hives, and as we know bees need protection from the north and with no hedge where I wanted to put the hives, out of the idea bag came the dead hedge again, the fab man-made natural screen that insects love - and it’s free, that’s if you do it yourself. Moving the bee hives wasn’t a job I had on my list, that’s kind of the trouble with lists; they always seem to miss out the jobs. Richie’s sheep have arrived for their spring to autumn holiday here. Richie, who I

stupidly featured last year, he’s too good looking, I’m going to re-advertise our grazing next year and request someone more normal. But the good news is we had 21 ewes arrive and unbeknown to Richie one of them had been on Tinder and her first date went a bit too far and on the 3 June a lamb was born, very late in the season, all healthy. It’s great seeing the spring lamb and the ewes. I still prefer the Suffolk sheep to the Texels whose heads look like they have been shaped in a vice. Now talking of parentage, our daughter has announced she is getting married, I think she’s picked the guy too, and wants the marriage here which is super exciting. We have some wrinkly tin sheds which I will re clad and make look good, I did show them to a friend who asked about the wedding; she seemed to laugh at them for rather too long, anyway on a positive note, and it’s always good to end on a positive, that’s one less person for the wedding.

We are fortunate to have a fabulous wildflower meadow here, luck has been assisted by a steep slope which prevented tractors with a plough getting down! When John Wright the forager from River Cottage, visited us, he marvelled at the meadow telling us we had a mass of pig nuts, some of the best he’d seen; clearly, we were delighted to the point we had to find out what a pig nut was. Unfortunately, it isn’t as prized as we had hoped, not a Northumberland truffle. The badgers love pig nuts, their diggings are very evident, unfortunately they also love chickens. Whilst the meadow, if you will allow my self-assessment, is beautiful, I do think we need to also recognise that it doesn’t really serve to support farming. Farming is the ‘act or process of working the ground, planting seeds, growing edible plants, and also raising animals for milk or meat’. We graze sheep on our land which is farming, but I wouldn’t describe that as viable farming, and nor are we trying to be viable, it is a love of the land afforded through time worked in a very different industry. The real farmers are finding it tough and particularly so with the uncertainty of post brexit grants, it is a worrying time for them. We do need to

find the balance for farming between economic success, responsible land management and quality produce. Our alternative is to import food, but really none of us want that. Our collective challenge right now is balancing all three elements and not simply looking at one of the three components. Wilding is great and we love it, but farming is so important and as we’ve read, we have an increasing number of farmers selling up; in the first quarter of this year, 30% more than a year ago. The land may be sold for farming, but equally other buyers of land are reaching for carbon sequestration and as an investment. All good stuff but we need to ensure that carbon and wilding don’t become a greater economic goal than food, food needs an equal presence on the stage.

So let’s love our wild meadows but make sure we help farmers farm responsibly through a balanced approach. Whilst our pig nuts are amazing, I’m not chasing signatures for pig nut grants! We are seeing a real abundance of wildlife this year and whilst it is a relatively small piece of land here, as we connect with our neighbours and see their wild meadows we start to build corridors of common and connecting habitats where insects prosper and that food chain extends to the wildlife we are now seeing.

Now across the valley we have some

UPCOMING COURSES @LINNELS FARM

DELVE INTO A DAY OF TRADITIONAL BREADS >> 18 JULY

Roll up your sleeves on this hands-on course and we’ll delve into the delights of Traditional English Breads. You’ll learn how to make the famous stottie, as seen on TV: BBC2 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes!

MAKE A WILLOW HARE WITH PHIL BRADLEY >> 20 JULY

Under the careful guidance of master basket maker, Phil Bradley, you’ll create a unique willow hare that has wonderful movement and form. It will look fabulous in your garden.

PLOT TO PLATE – TASTE THE DIFFERENCE >> 27 JULY

Join us on a relaxed day of learning where we’ll expand on your knowledge

of veg growing as we introduce you to new and unusual varieties you might not have considered before such as: agretti, asparagus peas, globe artichokes, tromboncinos, tomatillos, and Puntarelle which will all grow in our climate.

MACARONS MADE EASY >> 2 AUGUST

Learn how to make these divine French classics at this half-day workshop.

TEA TIME TREATS >> 22 AUGUST

Join us for a day of baking and we’ll divulge the secrets to a perfect sponge cake, the lightest of scones and the ultimate treat: the toasted tea-cake.

For further details and to book visit linnelsfarm.com

Let’s love our wild meadows but make sure we help farmers farm responsibly through a balanced approach

HOME COMFORTS

with chef Chris Baber

Summer-inspired recipes, foodie festivals and making the most of seasonal ingredients…

MY WORLD >>

Summer, it’s such an exciting time of year! I’ve been super busy recently, but it’s all part of the fun. I was back home in the North East earlier this year for the Hexham Book Festival and that was a great experience. I lived there until I was 25 and to be back there and seeing friends, family and familiar faces in the crowd was a really great experience for me. I recently got back from The Body Camp in Mallorca which was great fun. I was there with a group of 25 other people I didn’t know, where we all had to completely switch ourselves off and embrace this fun, fitness retreat which is all about focusing on the mind, wellbeing, food and fitness. Your days are very structured and everything is planned out and organised for you. For example, you might wake up and start the day with an ice bath, followed by breakfast which was prepared by the exceptional chef Ben Whale. Then after breakfast, it was usually some sort of fun fitness activity like aerobics or a group activity in the pool, then the afternoon is often time for mindfulness, followed by a relaxing activity like yoga, then dinner and a fun evening activity like a quiz or karaoke before bed. It was very structured, there was a lot of time spent together, eating together and talking. It was a breath of fresh air to have someone else in charge of my day. It was a great time with a great bunch of people and we’ve all kept in touch which is nice.

FOODIE HAPPENINGS >>

I’ve spent a lot of time in Yorkshire recently, working on something exciting with Heck. I love coming back to my roots and working closely with northern businesses. We have lots of fun while I’m there coming up with some great recipes, it’s a great project to be involved in. I’m super excited this summer as my flat in London is finally renovated enough to host family and friends for small gatherings. For me, there’s nothing better than getting people around to socialise over some good food. I’ve also recently teamed up with a company called Fresh Fitness Foods which is a great meal prep app where you can input your goals and nutrition needs, calories, macros and they deliver high quality food to your door.

They have a team of chefs who work in the kitchen during the night to ensure your food is prepared and with you the next day - when I say it’s proper, fresh and high quality, I mean it. It’s a great project to be involved in. The BBC Good Food Show in June which was sponsored by Hex Clad, was phenomenal and Pub in the Park is something that’s taking up a lot of my time at the moment, which I’m loving! I’ve been cooking on stage alongside some great chefs like Simon Rimmer, Tom Kerridge and Paul Ainsworth. I’m also going to be heading back to California soon for some exciting foodie happenings so watch this space.

INSPIRED BY THE SEASONS >>

Tomatoes are truly incredible at this time of year. I think the joy with the summer ingredients, especially produce like tomatoes, is that you don’t even need to cook them. Cut them open, add a little bit of salt, absolutely delicious. Or put them through a salad or another great idea is to blister them in a pan, add a little bit of oil, throw in some garlic and just get a little char on them. It just takes two minutes, then top some nice toast with some ricotta cheese and load your tomatoes on there, maybe some pecorino. Simple and delicious.

ASK CHRIS >>

If you’ve got any questions you want to ask Chris, please get in touch via his Instagram page. Chris will select a question and answer them in the next column. #AskChris

Q: Perfect summer breakfast to kickstart your day?

A: It sounds a bit basic, but for me, you can’t go wrong with overnight oats packed with loads of seasonal fruits in there. Take your oats, your milk of choice, some greek yoghurt, tons of berries and a little drizzle of honey for a bit of sweetness. You could even scatter some almonds in there for a bit of crunch or add in some peanut butter. Delicious, healthy and a perfect way to fuel your day ahead. It’s great to prepare in big batches for families too.

TRY THIS >>

HECK! Steak Cheeseburger with Homemade Bacon Jam

SERVES 2

Serve up a treat on the BBQ this summer with these seriously delicious HECK! steak cheeseburgers layered up with homemade bacon jam. Oh-so indulgent!

Ingredients

2 HECK! Steak and Butter Burgers

2 slices burger cheese

2 brioche burger buns

2 thick slices tomato

1 small handful shredded lettuce

Method

For the Bacon Jam

250g HECK! smoked bacon - diced

2 large red onions diced

100g soft brown sugar

50g maple syrup

200 ml cider vinegar

1/2 tsp chilli flakes

Heat a splash of oil in a large frying pan over a medium heat. Add the bacon and fry for 5 - 8 minutes until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon leaving the fat In the pan. Reduce the heat slightly. Add the onions and season, cover loosely and cook for 10 minutes or until soft.

Add the bacon back to the pan with the sugar, maple, and vinegar. Cook for a further 10 minutes until you have a jammy consistency.

Meanwhile, cook the burgers according to packet instructions on the BBQ. When they are just about cooked, top with a slice of cheese. Cover the BBQ with a lid and cook for a minute until the cheese has melted.

Slice open the buns. Spread with butter. Toast on the BBQ until golden.

Load the base of the buns with lettuce and a slice of tomato. Top with the cheeseburgers followed by the bacon jam.

Tuck in and enjoy!

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Pure and simple

and the general public were introduced to mixed farming, countryside stewardship and animal husbandry. Sadly that all stopped in 2001 in the wake of the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak which caused huge disruption in the UK farming sector. At the time there were around ten people working at the farm, jobs which were sadly lost,” says Joe.

A diversification project was sorely needed if the farm was to have a future long term, and one day bring jobs back to the area.

The family have been on the farm for almost 90 years and recognised that it was their responsibility to look after the land for future generations. In 2013 Elizabeth had installed a bore hole, tapping into the underground spring as a sustainable water supply for the grazing animals at Marlish Farm, and when Joe read that Abbey Well of Morpeth had been acquired by Coca Cola, he spotted a gap in the market for a regional, independent spring water brand.

“I always wanted to do my own thing and have my own business, and this was the perfect time,” says Joe.

“I looked at the local resources and opportunities with a vision of creating a premium, sustainable brand which would showcase the unique qualities of our natural spring water, ensuring that it was bottled at source to maintain its purity and freshness,” he added.

Joe had the spring water source professionally tested and its catchment area traced.

“There was an enormous amount of analysis to be done. We had to test the water every month for about two years to prove the stability of the source,” he explains.

The results were fantastic. Joe and Elizabeth had tapped into a historic underground aquifer, a completely sustainable resource which is naturally replenished by rainwater falling on the Northumbrian hills, taking hundreds of years to naturally filter through the rock strata, gaining a high level of purity and mineralisation along the way. To be able to call it spring water however, they knew they had to package it at source, and therefore needed to build a factory on the farm which took a further two years of research and development.

The factory which was eventually built took its lead from Elizabeth who had always been well ahead of the curve when it comes to sustainability.

“Over the past ten years, Elizabeth has overseen a substantial tree planting programme on the farm, creating habitats for wildlife such as pheasant, partridge,

There’s something in the DNA of Northerners – a fighting spirit which means that even when the chips are down, they can diversify and come out fighting. For Joe Evans, who studied biomedical science and worked for a French pharmaceutical company straight from university in 2011, the opportunity to live and work in his beloved Northumberland and to have his own business, came with the discovery of a natural spring deep within the ground on Marlish Farm near Morpeth.

The spring has produced a refreshing, clean and crisp water, naturally filtered through layers of rock, for over 150 years. It took Joe’s disenchantment with his career in drug development and a devastating case of Foot-and-mouth in the wider regionwhich forced the farm - owned by Joe’s cousin Elizabeth Walton, to diversify, for the pair to realise that the key to both their futures lay right beneath their feet. Elizabeth had established Marlish Farm Visits in 1985.

“Marlish Farm Visits was an educational visitor centre where schools, youth clubs

Joe Evans is the Director and Co-Founder of Northumbria’s award-winning Marlish Waters, the UK’s only spring water collected and packaged at source. Julie Burniston discovered more about this flourishing enterprise and the company’s commitment to sustainability…

hare and deer to protect wildlife habitats and promote biodiversity. She also had solar panels installed in 2015 which today provide much of the energy required by the factory.

Production of Marlish Spring Waters began in January 2015, with all products packaged at source to reduce the carbon footprint and preserve the purity of the water. We use sustainable aluminium cans produced by the Carlisle-based factory of global manufacturer Crown and are proud to have a can-in, can-out recycling rate of 82 per cent,” he continues.

Marlish Waters currently employ six people and offer a fantastic range of mixers, tonics, spring waters and soft drinks. From still and sparkling water to Lemonade and Ginger Ale, Sparkling Sicilian Lemon, Brazilian Orange and Elderflower Tonic, they offer a healthier alternative to sugary, soft drinks. The range is available in outlets around the UK, including hospitality venues across the North East, Cumbria and North Yorkshire. It also sold into the NHS, schools and universities and is available at Booths supermarket and online.

Like most businesses, Marlish was hit hard by Covid – losing over 95 per cent of its sales.

“It was a very difficult time,” admits Joe. “We sold small stocks to universities and hospitals and spent the time catching up on farming jobs. Thankfully, since restrictions were lifted in 2021, we have hit the ground running with upgrades to the factory, the implementation of efficient automation and an increase in our customer base,” he adds. Despite its success - Marlish Waters have won several awards for their quality and taste, including The Spirit Business Gold Award in 2022 and Joe was named in the Northeast 35 Under 35 Top Young Business Talent in 2022 – the company still has big ambitions.

“We're in a market which is dominated by huge companies with the biggest soft drinks sales in the UK belonging to French and Italian companies. Why do we need to import when there is a British, sustainably produced product available? We want to go up against these companies and provide an alternative. There are not many companies who make their own soft drinks anymore. A lot will use contract manufacturers. The fact that we’re using the spring water which comes out of the ground and mixing it with essences here on the farm is quite a unique thing. Our customers really appreciate that, and the fact we're a family business goes a long way too,” he says.

On April 1 this year, Marlish Waters were thrilled to announce that all their products are now produced with 100 per cent renewable energy, which was their ambition since day one.

In partnership with Go Low Carbon and Pozitive Energy, Marlish products are now produced using 100 per cent solar, wind

and biomass energy, approximately 15 per cent of which is already being produced on Marlish Farm itself, via those revolutionary solar panels. The news marks a significant step in the brand’s mission to eventually become carbon neutral.

“Sustainability has always been at the heart of everything we do at Marlish, and has been right from the very beginning,” says Joe.

“With consumers demanding more transparency around brands’ sustainability policies, and actively seeking out brands that put sustainability at the top of their agenda, we know that we need to be doing everything we can, not just to protect our farm and the land around us, but also to tick the boxes of the ever-growing ecoconscious consumer.

“Our ultimate aim is to be a driving force for change in the environmental impact of consumables. If we can play even a small part in encouraging more people and businesses to ditch the plastic and switch to cans, or glass, or to simply consider the environmental footprint of the products they consume, then we’re well on our way.”

The last six months have also seen an upgrade to the factory production technology on the farm, with a significant investment being made in increasing capacity and efficiency.

hardwood charcoal because it burns especially hot and imparts more of a smoky flavour, but it can be challenging to control if you’re inexperienced. Some people use a combination of briquettes and hardwood charcoal to get the benefits of both. You can also use chunks of hardwood like oak or ash, they take longer to burn down to ash-covered coals than charcoal does but there’s nothing like that whisper of real wood smoke on a steak.

Our favourite cuts for grilling

Beef: any steak from the rib or loin, rump steak, hanger steak, bavette, picanha Pork: loin chops, baby back ribs Lamb: chops, butterflied leg

Poultry: Chicken thighs or whole legs tend to produce a better result than the breast which can become a little dry

Quality matters

It’s extremely important to buy the best you can afford, 90% of good cooking is good shopping. Put trust in your butcher when it comes to cooking up high-quality meats.

Temper before cooking

Mastering the touch test

Cooking steaks at home can intimidate people; the problems tend to revolve around not being able to figure out when it’s done. Different cuts cook at different rates and you need to assess each piece of meat individually for thickness, internal temperature and fat content. Then there’s the temperature of your grill or the type of pan you are using. Professional chefs rely on a touch test. A rare steak should feel like the fleshy triangle of skin between the thumb and index finger of a relaxed hand. A medium steak will feel like the same spot on a clenched fist and if you want it well done, compare it to the tip of your nose. An alternative method would be to use a digital, instant read thermometer. A rare steak would have a core temperature of around 45 °C; medium rare 50°C; medium 55-60°C and well done 71°C. A point worth noting is that thicker steaks will continue to cook for a while once removed from the pan.

Let it rest

These upgrades mean that the facility now uses 50 per cent less CO2 for its carbonated beverages thanks to new filling technology from Krones UK, low voltage LED lighting throughout the factory, an energy and consumable efficient cleaning system, and better temperature control.

It's incredible that Marlish Waters run such a hi-tech operation in rural Northumberland, with admitted issues with transport and internet connectivity, but this caring, personal touch is perhaps what makes the products so special – that and the fact that the water is seemingly never ending.

“It does rain a lot in Northumberland, so there’s enough water to keep us going for a very, very long time,” smiles Joe.

That’s future proofing at its very best! marlish.co.uk

Bring your meat to room temperature before cooking, you get a better result with dry-heat cooking. Doing this allows the meat to cook more evenly, instead of overcooking on the surface before the centre warms up. That said, take care not to leave your meat in the danger zone for more than two hours. Removing steaks, chops or other thin cuts from the fridge an hour before cooking is sufficient. For thick roasts or other large cuts, give them two hours at cool room temperature but no more.

A little seasoning

Seasoning is important, but be careful! One of the properties of salt is to extract the juices from meat and in doing so prevents it from browning and forming a crust. It is therefore perhaps better to salt smaller pieces of red meat half-way through the cooking process. When it comes to larger pieces, try seasoning with salt and freshly milled pepper where the meat is carved into slices after cooking for a second time. This is because the salt can never reach the heart of the meat during cooking.

Virtually any cut of meat that’s thicker than an escalope benefits from a rest between cooking and serving. The meat will reabsorb juices as it cools, minimising the fluids lost when you cut into the muscle. Give a steak at least five minutes or a whole roast pork loin at least twenty minutes before carving to allow the juices to settle. As meat rests, its internal temperature typically rises 3 - 5°C from residual heat. This phenomenon is known as ‘heat gain’ and the hotter the oven or grill, the more heat gain you can expect.

Carve like a pro

So you’ve bought a great piece of meat and cooked it perfectly. Now’s the time to carve. For maximum eating pleasure, keep these pointers in mind: let the meat rest, start with a sharp knife, carve against the grain, maintain your knife angle, cut tougher meats thinly and tender meats more thickly and finally, buy good steak knives.

Tuck in and enjoy

Now you’ve grilled to perfection, it’s time to serve up and dig in.

21hospitality.co.uk

One of the North East’s most respected chef-restaurateurs Terry Laybourne, takes us through his top tips for cooking up a perfect BBQ feast

Raise a glass

Refreshing sips for summertime bliss brought to you by Caroline Dask...

Exotic dream >>

Pull The Pin Passionfruit & Pineapple Silver Rum

Embark on a taste journey to a sun-soaked paradise with Pull The Pin Passionfruit & Pineapple Silver Rum. This vibrant and luscious rum captures the essence of tropical bliss, combining the sweet tang of passionfruit with the tropical juiciness of pineapple. Each sip reveals a harmonious blend of flavours, transporting you to a beachside oasis. This premium silver rum embodies the spirit of summer, inviting you to unwind and indulge in its tropical allure.

*Tasting notes: This exotic elixir can be enjoyed on the rocks or turned into a flavourful Pina Colada, just add a splash of pineapple juice, coconut drizzles, and don’t forget the ice! buy.pullthepinrum.com

Rich and elegant >>

LOUIS XIII Rare Cask 42.1

In the realm of fine spirits, one name reigns

supreme: LOUIS XIII. This exquisite cognac blend is a tribute to the art of time and craftsmanship. Each decanter is a work of art, handcrafted by skilled artisans. With its rich mahogany hue and complex flavours of honey, dried fruits, and spices, LOUIS

XIII: Rare Cask 42.1 is a true testament to luxury.

Yorkshire-based five-star hotel, Grantley Hall, was specially selected by luxury Cognac House to list its exceptional limited-edition Rare Cask 42.1 decanter between 1 and 20 June, and is now available to purchase at Harrods.

*Tasting notes: No additions needed, this unique blend of rich flavours is best enjoyed in its own original form. grantleyhall.co.uk

Time for wine

Sit back and relax while the head sommelier at Matfen Hall - Yelba Pérez Saballos - takes us through a journey of refreshing whites, vibrant rosés and bold reds. Sip, savour, and discover the perfect drink to elevate your summer moment

White Wine: Veigadares Adegas Galegas

Rias Baixas, Galicia, Spain 2019

A glass of white wine is always a good idea. Embark on a sensory journey with Veigadares, created in the heart of Rias Baixas region. Crafted by the esteemed winemaker Asuncion Carballo, it captures the true spirit of Albariño, Treixadura, Loureira, and Caíño Blanco. Distinct personalities of each grape result in a symphony of floral notes from Condado and vibrant freshness from Salnés. Prepare to be captivated by the high aromatic intensity, clarity, elegance, and subtlety that Veigadares offers.

TRY THIS >>

Midsummer Cocktail

Thirlings Dry Gin by Ad Gefrin is crafted with meticulous care, using botanicals with a Northumbrian heart and Anglo-Saxon soul. It is inspired by the flavours of Northumberland, capturing the essence of Ad Gefrin’s natural surroundings: heather and pine from the hills, elderberry and dill from the hedgerow, and Irish moss and sea buckthorn from the coast.

Ingredients

Thirlings Dry Gin

Fresh cucumber

Fresh mint

Elderflower liqueur

Lime Juice Gomme

Method

Grab your cocktail shaker and squeeze in some lime juice over ice. Add Thirlings Dry Gin together with elderflower liqueur and give it a good mix with either a spoon or a straw. Pour in some gomme to sweeten the deal, don’t forget to add some fresh cucumber and mint, and then shake it until your arm hurts! Pour into a gin glass and enjoy it on a hot summer day. Cheers! adgefrin.co.uk

*Tasting notes: Notes of citrus, aromatic herbs, such as rosemary and fennel, hints of spicy white pepper and nutmeg means this is best paired with a local seafood platter. Think oysters, scallops, and mussels. Yum!

Rosé Wine: Nervi Conterno, II ROSATO NEBBIOLO

Gattinara Piedmont, Italy 2021

Transport yourself to the rolling hills of Gattinara in Piedmont, Italy, with the exquisite Nervi Conterno, Il Rosato Nebbiolo. This enchanting rosé wine captures the essence of the region, showcasing the distinct flavours of Nebbiolo grapes. With its vibrant pink hue and delicate aromas, this rosé is a true delight for the senses. Sip and savour the refreshing notes of red berries and floral undertones, perfectly balanced with crisp acidity.

*Tasting notes: Fresh raspberry fruit aromas with herbaceous notes mean this rose wine is perfectly dry, crisp and fresh. Combine it with a cheese souffle for a flavour explosion.

Red Wine: Cakebread Cellars, Two Creeks Pinot Noir

Anderson Valley, Napa Valley, California, US 2020

Established in 1973 by Jack and Dolores, this winery has captured the hearts of wine enthusiasts. Winemaker Julianne Laks embraces the diverse microclimates and soils, crafting wines that boast complexity and depth. Journey from the fog-kissed Carneros to the sun-soaked Calistoga, with stops at Howell Mountain and the Rutherford Bench. Their vineyards in Anderson Valley produce exceptional Pinot Noirs. The delightful aromas of sweet black cherry, raspberry, and rose petal will mesmerise you and make for a perfect summer evening.

*Tasting notes: Try it over dinner with 16oz Chateaubriand. Thank us later.

are available at Matfen Hall and online matfenhall.com corneyandbarrow.com

A culinary journey

Luxe dines out at one of Durham’s finest new dining establishments, Faru…

New to Durham’s foodie scene is Faru, a luxurious dining venue that has taken the city’s culinary scene by storm. The new fine dining eatery is the brainchild of Jake and Laura Siddle, marking their debut as restaurateurs in Durham. Situated in the bustling heart of the city, Faru derives its name from Old English, symbolising the essence of a remarkable journey, which invites foodies on a culinary adventure where a flavour-centric menu takes centre stage, showcasing the finest seasonal produce from an open kitchen.

Since its opening in April 2023, the husband and wife duo, who were previously associated with Newcastle’s prestigious Michelin-starred House of Tides, have been crafting a dining experience that epitomises elegance and innovation. With delicate precision evident in each dish, an abundance of flavours and textures, and a commitment to using local produce where possible, Faru has quickly become a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts seeking a remarkable gastronomic experience.

From the moment you step into the elegant surroundings, it becomes evident that no detail is overlooked. Upon arrival, we’re greeted with an inviting ambience, where an open-plan kitchen is the star of the show, allowing diners to witness the artistry of the chefs at work. The venue also boasts an extensive drinks menu ensuring a delightful array of refreshing sips complement the evening.

The decor exudes sophistication, embracing a minimalist approach with soft, soothing tones that create a calming atmosphere. We take our seats and are gently guided through the impressive menu - and with such excellent customer care and a friendly demeanour - we’re already off to a great start.

Our first course arrives and it’s a Parmesan delight that kicks things off. This moreish

dish delivers a cheese hit accompanied by a subtle black pepper aftertaste, leaving a lingering craving for more. The flavours are perfectly balanced, setting the stage for the culinary marvels that lie ahead.

Next, the salt-aged beef is a delight for the eyes and the palate. With each bite comes an explosion of fragrant flavours. The tender meat showcases the expertise of the chefs in selecting and ageing prime ingredients. Each bite reveals the depth of the carefully crafted ingredients, leaving a lasting impression.

The chicken wing offers another delightful surprise. It is evident that the chefs have mastered the art of infusing every ingredient with layers of taste, resulting in a harmonious and satisfying dish.

One of the standout creations at Faru is the locally sourced crab tart, featuring crab from the renowned fishing town of Whitby. This dish surprises the palate with a symphony of flavours. The brown crab emulsion serves as a delightful base, while the white crab atop adds a luxurious touch. Compressed cucumber, bergamot, and dill enhance the overall composition, creating a sensational experience that unfolds with every mouthful. A whimsical twist on a classic, the milk bread up next is a warm and comforting delight. Infused with wild garlic and generously slathered with butter, this powerful dish offers divine indulgence.

Prepare yourself for the next culinary masterpiece: the hen of the woods dish, which is undoubtedly a standout and potential favourite of the evening. This extraordinary creation features a symphony of flavours that will satisfy any foodie. A chicken fat crumb, delicately intertwined with the essence of yeast, adds a lovely crunch to the dish. Complemented by a luscious chive emulsion, crisp pak choi, and a tantalising mushroom ketchup, this composition is nothing short of sensational.

To elevate the experience further, the hen of the woods dish is accompanied by a mushroom dashi broth, delicately infused with chive oil. This palate-pleasing

combination offers a burst of umami flavours. A rich and deeply satisfying creation which acts as a little slice of heaven for the taste buds. Our Luxe top tip? Keep a piece of the milk bread on hand. Its warm and buttery goodness serves as the perfect vessel to soak up every last drop of the divine sauce.

Faru continues to impress with a refreshing and fragrant halibut dish. As the menu progresses, this lighter course offers a perfect balance just when it’s needed the most. The combination of flavours is nothing short of spectacular, showcasing the chefs’

ability to create dishes that are both visually stunning and harmonious in taste.

The lamb course, finished on the BBQ, is a testament to the exceptional quality of the ingredients used at Faru. With a red pepper purée adding depth to the dish, the lamb emerges as the star, embodying everything one desires in this classic meat. The addition of deep-fried sweetbreads on the side provides an oh-so tasty accompaniment. Transitioning into the realm of desserts, the strawberry creation captivates the senses.

A luscious strawberry compote paired with an unforgettable brown butter ice cream and a crunchy granola base. This delicious palate cleanser stands as a testament to the chef’s skill in crafting an unforgettable conclusion to the savoury journey. The chocolate dessert takes indulgence to new heights. The rich and airy tea-infused chocolate mousse strikes a delicate balance between intensity and lightness. The accompanying banana sorbet provides a refreshing contrast, resulting in a heavenly combination that leaves you longing for more.

To conclude the dining experience, Faru presents a delightful assortment of sweet treats. From the white chocolate-covered ice cream to the coconut marshmallows, each bite transports you to a blissful oasis reminiscent of a tropical holiday. These delectable morsels are the perfect ending to an extraordinary meal.

At Faru, every element of the dining experience is carefully curated to delight the senses. From the meticulous presentation of each dish to the thoughtful sourcing of ingredients, the dedication of this husband and wife team is evident in every aspect of their establishment. As well as some of the most divine food we’ve had the pleasure of trying, by collaborating with local businesses, Faru showcases its commitment to supporting the community while celebrating the best of what the region has to offer.

Our opinion? A must-visit destination for those seeking an extraordinary dining experience that combines elegance, innovation, and the finest ingredients.

faru.co.uk

Luxe Supper Club

The Luxe team and guests discover gourmet delights at a sensational supper club at Matfen Hall…

At Luxe HQ, one thing we truly adore about food is its incredible ability to bring people together. There’s nothing quite like gathering friends, raising a glass of vino, and indulging in a delectable meal. It’s a communal experience that brings us closer as humans, and when it happens in a splendid setting, the joy is multiplied. Our recent Luxe Supper Club took place at the stunningly refurbished Matfen Hall, setting the stage for an evening filled with conviviality and uplifting vibes.

Accompanied by a select group of guests, the Luxe team settled in for a truly memorable occasion. The air was filled with animated conversations, laughter resonating throughout, and an array of unforgettable dishes that awaited us. From the get-go, it was evident that we were in capable hands. The chefs at Matfen Hall showcased their culinary skills and demonstrated their mastery in crafting menus that delight the senses. They meticulously curated an exquisite selection of thoughtfully designed dishes, resulting in a feast that exuded elegance and style

from beginning to end.

Our evening started in The Cloisters Lounge where guests were welcomed with reception drinks featuring Laurent-Perrier Champagne. Accompanying the flutes filled with the effervescent bubbles were meticulously crafted canapés, bursting with flavours and textures that delighted the palate. A perfect prelude to the exceptional dining experience waiting in the wings.

Amidst the delectable canapés and lively conversations, we had the pleasure of being captivated by pre-dinner entertainment that left us spellbound. Paul Lytton, the magician, meandered around entertaining us with his tricks and illusions. He effortlessly performed mind-boggling feats leaving us with puzzled brains. It’s an experience I think we’ll all be talking about for some time to come.

The palate-pleasing three-course menu took us on a gastronomic journey, each dish a delightful showcase of the finest seasonal, local produce. Picture succulent cuts of British meat from the nearby countryside, aged and seasoned to perfection for utmost tenderness, alongside fresh seafood treasures hailing from the bountiful North

Sea. Every bite was accompanied by creative sides, ensuring a captivating dance of flavours on our palates.

Our starters and mains unfolded within the enchanting Sapphire Suite - one of the most sought-after event spaces within the hotel. Its tranquil ambience and breathtaking decor provides the ideal backdrop for intimate dinners, private gatherings, and delightful drinks receptions. It truly was a space that effortlessly blended glamour and sophistication.

To kick off our foodie adventure, we savoured pan-seared scallops atop a bed of pomme puree, sprinkled with Parmesan and truffle. Each mouthful exploded with an abundance of flavours, delighting our senses and leaving us craving more. As the main attraction, we were treated to a roast rump of lamb accompanied by a pea and puy lentil jus and served alongside fondant potato. The dish showcased unpretentious flavours and vibrant colours, and when we say the lamb was the epitome of tenderness and melt-in-your-mouth goodness, we genuinely mean it.

After relishing two fabulous courses, we concluded our culinary journey on a sweet

note with a pistachio and strawberry dacquoise accompanied by coconut ice cream, served in the impressive Vault Bar. This dessert struck the ideal balance between sweetness and refreshment. The perfect palate-cleansing experience. Not to be overshadowed, the wine pairing was a revelation in itself. Each sip perfectly complemented every bite, elevating the entire dining experience to new heights. Before the evening drew to a close, we were treated to an exclusive tour of the remarkable wine cellar, where row upon row of exceptional vintages awaited discovery. The tour was a fitting finale, leaving us with a deeper appreciation for the intricate nuances of wine. The whole Luxe team would like to extend a special thank you to the wonderful Sales Manager at Matfen Hall, Elain Meenaghan, for pulling together this incredible evening. To top it all off, each guest was presented with a thoughtfully curated goody bag, filled with delightful mementos and treats to cherish, serving as a token of appreciation for joining us on this remarkable gastronomic adventure.

matfenhall.co.uk

THE WINE LIST

Laurent-Perrier la Cuvée Champagne

served at reception with canapés

White, served with Scallop starter Cometa

Sicilia Menfi D.O.C.

100% Fiano

A great white wine from southern Italian grapes, comparable with great white wines of the world; this was the initial project. Thus began our experiments with Fiano during the 1990s, a noble and ancient vine with origins in Campania. And thus Cometa began, the best expression in a unique and original way of the characteristics of this extraordinary vine. Intense and fruity aromas, its great structure and minerality today make it one of the most important white wines of southern Italy.

Red, served with Lamb main Bogle Vineyards Phantom California USA

Exceptional Californian wine from Bogle Vineyards, winners of the American Winery of the Year title in 2019. Majority Petite Sirah with secondary Zinfandel and touches of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot is aged for 24 months in American oak. A plush, jammy wine that blasts out spice, juniper and toasted coconut whilst filling the mouth with ripe plums and blackberries. Pipe tobacco and cloves add to the passionate, long finish.

Dessert Wine

Domaine De La Rectorie

Banyuls Thérèse Reig

Grenache 90% Carignan 10% Banyuls

Languedoc-Roussillon, France

Aromas of prune and bitter cherry liqueur with some sweet spices help to lift the nose, some nutmeg and black pepper give it a spicy warming edge. The palate is very smooth and fruity, but not too sweet.

A word from the guests…

“The food, company and chat was all top rate – I’m still confused by the magician!”

Jim Athey, UK MD George Smith

“It was a real pleasure, thank you so much for inviting me, Matfen Hall is beautiful.”

Janice Graves, Marketing Director Newcastle High School for Girls

“A really enjoyable evening. The food and wine were top drawer and the refurbishment is simply amazing.”

Mark Bryce, Sales Director Agilico

UK GETAWAY:

Rockliffe Hall

Nicole Wood escapes to Rockliffe Hall for a blissful overnight stay…

step foot through the door.

Nestled in the picturesque countryside of County Durham, Rockliffe Hall stands as a beacon of luxurious tranquility. This enchanting resort showcases an exquisite blend of historic charm and contemporary sophistication, offering discerning travellers an unforgettable escape. With its grand decor, delectable dining options, an award-winning spa, and a plethora of leisure activities, Rockliffe Hall sets the stage for an indulgent experience like no other.

LOCATION

After a busy day at Luxe HQ, it’s straight into the car for a 49-minute drive down the A1(M) to our dreamy base for the night. A short drive off the beaten track, Rockliffe Hall is secluded enough to feel like you’ve travelled far enough for a peaceful getaway, yet close enough to local amenities for those who like to get out and explore.

It’s a jaw-dropping first impression as we drive through the grounds and towards the building. With dusk upon us, the outdoor lighting is illuminating our path, showcasing the beauty of the superbly manicured grounds. Upon arrival, it’s an easy check in. Smiling faces and a friendly attitude is on hand to offer assistance as soon as we

The luxurious resort enjoys a privileged location amidst 375 acres of sprawling, manicured grounds. Set against the backdrop of the stunning River Tees and surrounded by breathtaking countryside, this destination effortlessly combines natural beauty with refined elegance. The serene surroundings provide a sense of calm, allowing guests, including myself, to unwind and immerse themselves in the luxurious ambience. It’s a hotspot for all of what County Durham has to offer, making it the ultimate base for exploring the county or simply sitting back, relaxing and revelling in proper North East hospitality.

STYLE

Rockliffe Hall's style is a harmonious fusion of timeless elegance and contemporary sophistication, creating an ambience that delights the senses. The hotel showcases a variety of distinct areas and rooms, each with its own unique character and charm. The architecture of the hotel reflects its historical roots, while the interiors exude a refined, modern aesthetic. From the moment you step into the opulent reception, you're greeted by an atmosphere of grandeur and sophistication. The grand entrance hall sets the tone for the entire property, with its majestic staircase,

sparkling chandeliers, and opulent furnishings. This space exudes a sense of splendour, welcoming everyone who visits into a world of refined luxury.

LAY YOUR HEAD

The building boasts two main areas –the Old Hall and the New Hall. Our suite is found in the Old Hall where the meticulous attention to detail in the furnishings, artwork, and lighting creates an ambience that exudes both warmth and luxury. Our suite offers a ‘wow’ first impression from the

minute we step through the door. Equipped with a relaxing lounge area, spacious and oh-so comfortable bed, giant bathtub with a feature wall tile TV and breathtaking views overlooking the Championship golf course. The beauty and comfort of our home for the night appears too good to be true - we simply don’t want to leave.

The Old Hall rooms, carefully restored to their former glory, showcase a classic style that pays homage to the hotel's rich heritage. These rooms feature elegant period furnishings, sumptuous fabrics, and antique accents, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a bygone era. Guests can immerse themselves in the splendour while enjoying modern amenities and breathtaking views of the surrounding estate. The purpose-built New Hall rooms, which have recently been refurbished, offer guests a more modern and sleek aesthetic. The rooms in this section are adorned with stylish furniture, clean lines, and sophisticated colour palettes. A real luxurious retreat.

Rockliffe Hall boasts an array of dining options that cater to every palate. The flagship restaurant, The Orangery, is renowned for its Michelin-starred cuisine, which showcases the finest seasonal ingredients transformed into culinary masterpieces. From sumptuous tasting menus to exquisite à la carte offerings, each dish is a celebration of flavour and creativity. For a more relaxed dining experience, The Clubhouse is a great place to visit for a bite to eat. Steaks, sunday lunches, pies and pan fried chicken can all be enjoyed here. Another option, and the one we choose to dine at is Nu Sana. The casual eatery situated above the award-winning spa. Nu Sana offers a healthy, nutrition-led menu featuring nourishing dishes. Following a blissful night’s sleep, we head to Nu Sana for a delicious breakfast to kickstart our day. For me, it’s the bacon

and maple syrup pancakes (£8). Delightfully fluffy and drizzled in syrup, it’s the perfect sweet treat to fuel the day ahead. My partner goes for the full English breakfast (£11) which includes bacon, sausage, mushroom, tomato, hash brown, black pudding and eggs cooked to your liking. Simply delicious! Two creamy, piping hot lattes arrive to

accompany our breakfast choices along with a selection of toast and a variety of jams and marmalades. A great start to any day is guaranteed with a breakfast like this.

HOTEL HIGHLIGHTS

Rockliffe Hall prides itself on delivering

exceptional service that goes above and beyond expectations. The highly trained staff ensure that every aspect of your stay is attended to with meticulous care, guaranteeing an unforgettable experience. The list of things to do here is as extensive as it is impressive. Golf enthusiasts can tee off on the Championship golf course, which has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments. The resort's world-class spa facilities beckon guests to unwind and rejuvenate, offering a range of indulgent treatments and holistic therapies. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the estate's vast grounds through scenic walks or indulge in a game of tennis. The hall’s gym is also worth a visit, where guests can reconnect with the body and mind. Whether it’s a one-to-one session, a group fitness class or an epic workout using state-of-theart equipment, there’s plenty to ensure wellness comes first.

DO THIS

Rockliffe Hall has much to offer on its doorstep. Whether it’s an afternoon exploring the local countryside, hiking

up the famous Roseberry Topping, witnessing the impressive High Force Waterfall or stomping through the North Yorkshire Moors - there’s plenty for nature-lovers to explore. Beamish Museum, The Bowes Museum and Durham Castle are all within reach for culture vultures and families to enjoy for the day. Gorgeous coastlines, local towns, and busy city centres are all within reach too - ideal for those looking to walk, shop, dine and drink. Guests struggling to peel themselves away from the grandeur of Rockliffe have plenty to keep them busy. Wander through the Walled Garden, chat with the head gardener and discover what’s in season; families can embark on a fun-filled afternoon with a visit to the Alice in Wonderland themed adventure play area; pop on your walking boots and head out to explore the grounds with ample opportunities to gawk at the local wildlife; take advantage of the complimentary bike hire; enjoy the garden games and more.

rockliffehall.com

If you’re looking for a facial treatment that can give you an immediate, noticeable glow, hydration and vitality, look no further than the Hydra-Glow Facial. This dynamic fresh treatment combines relaxing techniques with unique ingredients including the use of Lactic Acid, powerful concentration of Hyaluronic Acid, and the bioactive Prickly Pear extract from Regenerative Agriculture. The aim? To deliver instant hydration and radiance for a healthy dewy look.

After a morning filled with some muchneed relaxation time in the spa, soaking up the benefits of the thermal rooms, hydropool and the magnificent Spa Garden, it’s time for my treatment. I head into the spa reception area where my lovely therapist comes to greet me and guides me up into the peaceful treatment room. My journey to bliss and glowing skin begins with a welcome foot ritual. As my feet emerge into comfortably hot water, my therapist begins to talk to me about my upcoming treatment. We discuss what the treatment entails, what skin concerns

I have and go through the relevant health and safety checks before proceeding. Removing all jewellery and making myself comfortable on the bed, my therapist returns and the treatment begins. The first step is the tranquillity welcome - the introduction of the therapist’s hands to myself, allowing us both to clear the mind and focus on the treatment ahead. This is followed by a deep cleanse to remove all oil and sebum from the skin, creating a clean canvas for the facial to work its magic on.

Next, it’s time to tone followed by the first of two hydra massages. The first is the hydra-drain, which sees two ice spoons run across the face, cooling the complexion and helping to drain and detox the skin. Then comes the AHA peel which effectively exfoliates the dead skin cells, preparing the skin for topical products, leaving a radiant finish behind. A relaxing scalp massage is next in line, allowing me to slip away for a moment of bliss.

A hydrating face mask is then applied, feeding and hydrating the skin before

the second facial massage, this time, it’s the hydra-lift. The two ice spoons are once again run across the face, this time helping to tone and contour the skin. A moment of pampering is welcomed next with a soothing hand and foot massage and once again I feel myself nodding off. Just before the treatment comes to an end, the finishing products of eye cream, serum and moisturising sorbet are applied using careful techniques.

Eager to cast my eyes upon my post-

treatment glow, my therapist hands me the mirror along with a cup of herbal tea and refreshingly cold glass of water. As I take a sip and gaze at my reflection, I’m shocked to see the instant radiance after just one treatment. With its powerful combination of skin-soothing benefits, hydration, and nourishment, I’m glowing instantly.

I pop my fluffy robe back on and head back downstairs to the spa for some R&R before sadly bidding farewell to one of the most relaxing and indulgent stays I’ve ever had.

An Italian dream

The summer months get our wanderlust senses tingling and this time, we’ve set our sights on an Italian adventure. Think luxury hotels, exquisite and oh-so authentic foodie delights and a jam-packed schedule filled with cultural happenings. With that being said, it’s time to set sail on a lavish escapade through the exquisite landscapes of Northern Italy, where ancient charm intertwines with contemporary sophistication. Flash Pack, the renowned adventure travel company, has unveiled a collection of new luxury European adventures, meticulously crafted to captivate discerning solo travellers in their 30s and 40s. As you immerse yourself in the opulent realm of Milan to Rome, prepare to be enchanted by the grandeur that awaits. Flash Pack’s commitment to curating unparalleled experiences lies at the heart of their Northern Italy sojourn. In the midst of a small, like-minded group, each step

unveils a new facet of Italian allure, tailored to foster connections and forge unforgettable memories. Radiating the spirit of exclusivity, this journey sets the stage for an exceptional travel encounter. Your adventure commences in Milan, a city renowned for its timeless elegance and artistic prowess. As you arrive at Milan’s prestigious airport, prepare to be enveloped in an atmosphere of sophistication. Embark on an epicurean voyage, immersing your palate in the harmonious blend of flavours that define Italy. Engage in a cheese and balsamic tasting, savouring the rich notes that tantalise the senses, setting the tone for the decadence to come.

Continuing on your path of indulgence, the enchanting city of Bologna beckons. This gastronomic haven offers a sumptuous culinary tapestry, where every morsel unveils a symphony of flavours. Under the guidance of skilled artisans, unlock the secrets of pasta-making during an exclusive workshop, acquiring the skills to recreate these culinary

Embark on an awe-inspiring seven-day adventure through Northern Italy, tailor-made for the adventurous globe-trotter. From Milan to Rome, let the journey begin...

Your itinerary

Day one: Arrival in Milan (MXP)

Day two: Cheese and Balsamic tasting

| Arrival in Bologna

Day three: Pasta workshop in Bologna

Day four: Travel to Florence | Walking tour

Day five: Siena | San Gimignano | Wine tasting

Day six: Train to Rome | Vespa sidecar adventure

Day seven: Departure from Rome (FCO)

This sensational trip will run three times this year, beginning on: 26 Aug 2023, 14 Sep 2023, and 7 Oct 2023 with prices starting from £3,060. For more information, visit flashpack.com

wonders in the comfort of your own home. The journey then leads you to the storied city of Florence, an embodiment of artistic genius and architectural splendour. Delve into the world of Florentine craftsmanship, as you wander through the artisan workshops, witnessing the magic of age-old techniques handed down through generations. Allow yourself to be swept away by the beauty that resonates within every street corner, every marble masterpiece, and every stroke of the brush. Venturing further into this land of enchantment, your path meanders through the picturesque landscapes of Siena and San Gimignano. As the sun bathes the rolling hills in golden hues, indulge in a sensory exploration of esteemed vineyards, where the finest wines are crafted. Traverse the labyrinthine cellars of a historic hilltop

castle, where time stands still, and partake in a wine tasting experience that transcends the ordinary.

The grand finale awaits in Rome, the eternal city that pulsates with life, history, and an undeniable allure. Amidst the bustling streets, embark on an iconic adventure aboard a Vespa sidecar, a symbol of freedom and elegance. Allow the wind to caress your face as you weave through Rome’s vibrant tapestry of ancient wonders and cosmopolitan energy, embracing the essence of la dolce vita.

This Northern Italy journey is a symphony of opulence and authenticity, weaving together the threads of luxury that elevate your

experience to new heights. Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Italy’s northern regions, where culinary delights, artisanal craftsmanship, and iconic adventures await at every turn. Indulge in the art of living as you cultivate lasting connections with fellow travellers who share your zest for exploration.

Unveiling the true spirit of luxury, this meticulously curated journey from Milan to Rome offers an escape into a world where every detail has been thoughtfully crafted. Join Flash Pack on this extraordinary adventure, where friendships are forged, horizons are expanded, and memories are etched in the tapestry of your soul.

This Northern Italy journey is a symphony of opulence and authenticity, weaving together the threads of luxury that elevate your experience to new heights

POSH PETS

with Rupert, helped by Nicole Wood

Here comes the sun

It’s here! The sun-soaked, wave-chasing days of summer. Oh, boy, what a time to be alive. This time of year begs for long days spent lounging in the garden, digging holes in the sand at the beach and cooling down with a frozen treat or two. With that in mind, this luxe pup has dug out a favourite recipe for fellow posh pets to try, as well as sniffing out some top tips on how to keep cool during the

Luxe pet Q&A

warmer climes and been to visit my pal Bilko at Newcastle Dog and Cat Shelter. There’s plenty going on at this time of year and us posh pets long for the summer months just as much as you humans do!

So, without further ado, soak up the sunshine and enjoy.

Rupert, your luxe pooch x

Rupert loves:

Frozen Peanut Butter Banana Bites

Ingredients

1 ripe banana

my brain active and tires me out mentally which sounds like the perfect excuse for another snooze to me.

HOUND HABITS

You may have already gathered, but I am partial to my food. If I had my way, I would eat all day but my friends say this isn’t good for me so I like to break my day up with lots of snuggles and, you guessed it, more snoozes!

LUXE PET Q&A

Hi, my name’s Bilko. I am a 5-year-old ex-racing Greyhound. I came to stay at Newcastle Dog and Cat Shelter after I retired from racing and had nowhere to go. Luckily for me my friends at the shelter were happy to welcome me. They even told me they will find me my very own family!

LUXE WALKS

As a Greyhound I am known for running very fast but I will let you into a secret… I much prefer a gentle stroll and am always ready for a long nap afterwards! There are great facilities for doing just that here at the shelter.

POOCH’S PERFECT DAY OUT

My perfect day starts with a yummy breakfast! I would then go for a nice stroll with one of my friends at the shelter exploring the local fields and neighbourhoods finding new sniffs and sights to enjoy. This also helps me get ready for the big day when I start my new life.

PUPPY PAMPER

My friends here at the shelter make me a big squishy bed every day and I love getting all cosy in there. Bonus points when I get strokes too!

DOGGY DOWNTIME

Oh, this one’s easy, snacks and naps! My friends sometimes make snack time fun by making up games for me to play to get my goodies. They say this keeps

DOG’S BEST FRIEND

I’m spoilt for choice with friends at the shelter but my favourite has to be Martin. He helps look after me. He is calm and reassuring and makes me feel safe and secure. My friends tell me there is a whole world of new friends waiting for me when I find my forever home.

FONDEST DOGGY MEMORY

I liked it when I didn’t have to race any more even though it made me homeless. Newcastle Dog and Cat Shelter have given me a happy retirement where I am loved and well-looked after. They gave me sanctuary when I needed it most. They do everything in their power to make me, and the other animals here, as happy as possible while we wait to find our forever homes.

PUPPY A-LISTER?

Hmm, I am tall, slim, kind and quirky, and I will make you laugh every day… I think I might be most like Louis Theroux!

THEY ASKED ME TO TELL YOU…

There are a few ways you can help the shelter. One is to sign up to the lottery (over 18? Live in the UK?) by visiting lottery.donr.com/play to Support Newcastle Dog and Cat Shelter. Or if the lottery isn’t your thing, how about helping with our vet bills by supporting our Sore Paws campaign? Scan the QR and help the shelter to continue to provide the care and treatment that every animal deserves.

Don’t forget to get in touch and send in pics of your pet for our next issue via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram…

facebook.com/luxemag @theluxemagazine @luxe_mag

2 tablespoons unsalted peanut butter (make sure it does not contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs)

1/4 cup plain yoghurt (choose a brand that does not contain artificial sweeteners)

Method

Peel the banana and mash it in a bowl until it becomes a smooth puree. Add the peanut butter and yoghurt to the mashed banana and mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. Spoon the mixture into ice cube trays or silicone moulds, filling each cavity generously.

Place the trays in the freezer and let them

Beat the heat

Hydration is key

Just like humans, pets need to stay hydrated in hot weather. Always provide plenty of fresh, clean water for your pets, and ensure that their water bowls are topped up regularly. Consider placing multiple water stations around your home and out in the garden, particularly in shady areas, so that your pets can easily access water wherever they are.

Shade and ventilation

Create shady spots in your home and garden where your pets can retreat to escape the heat. Set up outdoor shelters or invest in pet-friendly sunshades and umbrellas. Indoors, draw curtains or blinds to block out direct sunlight, and open windows to encourage airflow. If you’re concerned about your pets getting too hot while you’re away, consider using fans or air conditioning to keep the environment cool.

Avoid peak temperatures

Plan your outdoor activities with your pets during the cooler parts of the day, such as early mornings or evenings. Avoid taking them out during the hottest hours, typically between 11am and 3pm on sunny days. Pavements and other surfaces can become scorching hot, which can burn your pet’s paws. Opt for grassy areas or consider protective booties for their paws if you must venture out during peak heat.

freeze for at least three hours or until solid.

Once frozen, remove the treats from the moulds and transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag.

Store the treats in the freezer until ready to serve. Serve one at a time to your furry friend and watch them enjoy!

TOP TIP: you can customise this recipe by adding other petfriendly ingredients, such as diced strawberries, blueberries, or carrots. Just make sure to adjust the proportions accordingly to maintain a good consistency.

Cool treats and toys

Help your pets cool down by providing frozen treats or ice cubes made from pet-friendly ingredients. You can freeze water with small amounts of pet-friendly broth or pureed fruits for a refreshing treat. Additionally, consider providing them with chilled toys or frozen pet-safe chew treats. These not only entertain your pets but also offer a soothing respite from the heat.

Grooming and paw care

Regular grooming is crucial during summer to help your pets stay cool. Brushing their fur helps to remove excess hair and prevent matting, allowing better air circulation. However, never shave a double-coated pet, as their fur helps regulate body temperature. Consult your vet or a professional groomer for advice on the best grooming practices for your specific pet. Also, remember to check and moisturise your pet’s paws, as hot pavements can cause burns and discomfort.

EAT

Cafedral

If you’re looking for a cosy café with a touch of elegance in Durham - look no further than Cafedral. Nestled in the heart of the city, this charming spot offers a unique blend of comfort and sophistication. With its warm ambience and friendly staff, Cafedral provides the perfect setting for catching up with friends, enjoying a leisurely afternoon alone, or savouring a delicious cup of coffee. Whether you’re in the mood for a decadent pastry or a hearty brunch, Cafedral’s menu has something to satisfy every palate. facebook.com/cafedral

Ebony Champagne Bar

The ultimate destination for elegance, glamour and sophistication. Located in the heart of Durham, Ebony Champagne Bar presents you with an opportunity to sip on a wide selection of vintage and non vintage Champagnes, over 40 different cocktails, fine beers and spirits. Needless to say, this is a true paradise for Champagne connoisseurs and cocktail enthusiasts alike. The intimate surroundings and dimly lit interior create a refined and luxurious atmosphere. No matter the occasion, elevate your social experience and immerse yourself in the effervescence of Ebony Champagne Bar, where every moment becomes a memorable toast. ebonychampagnebar.co.uk

Embark on a culinary journey and let Faru dazzle your senses. faru.co.uk

Maple Patisserie

Step into the world of sweetness at Maple Patisserie, a delightful little spot for pastry lovers. This charming bakery entices with a delectable array of treats that are as beautiful as they are delicious. From flaky croissants to intricately designed cakes, Maple Patisserie’s creations are a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. Whether you’re in search of a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon treat, their menu offers a great variety to satisfy every craving. Visit Maple Patisserie and let the irresistible aromas and exquisite flavours transport you to a pastry paradise.

maple-patisserie.com

will ensure that you leave feeling rejuvenated and refreshed. For those who love to hit the links, Ramside Golf Club is a must-visit destination. With two championship courses to choose from, golfers of all skill levels will find plenty of challenges and opportunities to test their skills. And with stunning views of the surrounding countryside, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely round on the greens. So, whether you are looking for a relaxing spa break, an exciting round of golf, or a luxurious spot to lay your head, Ramside Hall Hotel has something for everyone. Book your stay today and experience the best that Durham has to offer!

ramsidehallhotel.co.uk

The Funky Monk

Experience the epitome of luxury living at The Funky Monk. These chic accommodations redefine sophistication and comfort. Each apartment is meticulously designed with stylish interiors, modern amenities, and a touch of funky flair. Whether you’re travelling for business

or pleasure, these lavish residences offer a home-from-home experience. Enjoy the convenience of fully-equipped kitchens, plush bedding, and spacious living areas. With their prime location, you’ll have easy access to Durham’s vibrant attractions, dining, and entertainment options. Elevate your stay in the city and immerse yourself in the indulgent world of The Funky Monk serviced apartments. thefunkymonk.co.uk

Radisson Blu Hotel

Radisson Blu Hotel in Durham is the perfect definition when it comes to sophistication, comfort and luxury. From the moment you reach the elegant reception, you’ll be captivated by the impeccable service and attention to detail. The well-appointed rooms and suites provide a peaceful retreat, while the on-site amenities, including a fitness centre and spa, ensure a rejuvenating stay. With its prime location and breathtaking views, the Radisson Blu Hotel is the perfect choice for both leisure and business travellers seeking a luxe experience of Durham and its hospitality. radissonhotels.com

Marriott Hotel Durham

Marriott Hotel Durham is a name that gives a sense of familiarity and comfort, and one can never go wrong with that. This upscale retreat welcomes guests with a blend of modernity and timeless elegance. With luxurious rooms and thoughtful amenities, every stay is designed for relaxation. Whether it’s a business trip or a leisurely getaway, Marriott Hotel Durham offers a seamless experience. Dine in style at their renowned restaurant - Cast Iron Bar & Grill - unwind after a long day of exploration and take a swim in their indoor pool, or host a memorable event in their state-of-theart facilities. marriott.com

Hotel Indigo

Escape to the enchanting world of Hotel Indigo, a captivating and fashionable hotel

Coarse

Nestled in a charming courtyard area, this dining haven delights food enthusiasts with a menu that showcases the finest local ingredients crafted into culinary masterpieces. Coarse’s fusion of flavours and artistic presentation elevate every dish, leaving diners in awe. Whether it’s a romantic date or a gathering with friends, the restaurant’s warm ambience and attentive service set the stage for an unforgettable experience. Coarse is a must-visit this summer!

coarse.restaurant

SLEEP

Faru

Situated in a vibrant corner of the city, this brand-new culinary gem offers a fusion of flavours that will transport your taste buds to new heights. With its exquisite menu crafted by skilled chefs, Faru Restaurant promises a symphony of delectable dishes that showcase the best of local and international cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for a succulent steak or a mouthwatering seafood creation, Faru Restaurant’s exceptional service and inviting atmosphere make it the perfect destination for a memorable evening.

Ramside Hall Hotel, Spa & Golf Club

If you are looking for a luxurious getaway in Durham, then look no further than Ramside Hall Hotel. This stunning venue boasts an impressive range of amenities, including a world-class spa and a championship golf course, ensuring that guests have everything they need for a truly unforgettable stay. The Ramside Spa is the perfect place to unwind, with a range of treatments and therapies available to help you relax.

From massages and facials, to full-body treatments, the spa’s expert therapists

that effortlessly blends history with modern luxury. This unique establishment celebrates Durham’s rich heritage through its stylish decor and thoughtful design. Each room is a sanctuary of comfort and elegance, providing a perfect retreat for travellers seeking a distinctive experience. Indulge in delectable cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant, unwind in the cosy lounge, and discover the vibrant surroundings. A good night’s sleep is guaranteed, putting you in the best shape possible for another day of exploring in Durham.

durham.hotelindigo.com

DISCOVER

Durham Castle

Experience the grandeur of Durham Castle, a magnificent historic landmark that captures the essence of mediaeval charm. Nestled atop a hill overlooking the River Wear, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history. Step inside and be transported back in time as you explore the opulent State Rooms and immerse yourself in the stories of the past. With its stunning architecture, lush gardens, and panoramic views, Durham Castle provides a picturesque backdrop for events and weddings. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a culture lover, or simply seeking awe-inspiring beauty, Durham Castle is a must-visit destination.

durhamworldheritagesite.com

Durham University

Embark on a captivating journey through the historic grounds of Durham University, a destination that combines academic brilliance with a vibrant cultural scene. Explore the architectural marvels of Durham Cathedral and witness breathtaking views from its tower. Wander along the picturesque River Wear, admiring the scenic beauty that surrounds the campus. Immerse yourself in the vibrant student life by attending captivating theatrical performances, concerts, and art exhibitions. Don’t miss out on the Durham Regatta, a renowned rowing event that brings the city to life. With its rich history, stunning sights, and exciting events, a visit to Durham University is an enriching experience for all. durham.ac.uk

Durham Cathedral

A majestic testament to mediaeval craftsmanship and one of the biggest

attractions in the region, Durham Cathedral stands as a testament to centuries of history and architectural grandeur. This UNESCO World Heritage Site captivates visitors from all around the world with its awe-inspiring beauty and spiritual aura. Step inside to marvel at the soaring Gothic architecture, intricate stained glass windows, and the serene ambience that envelops you. Discover the stories of saints and scholars, partake in the interactive exhibition known as Open Treasure, which showcases the cathedral’s extensive collection of treasures, manuscripts, and artefacts, and, if you’re brave enough, climb up to the top of the central tower for some panoramic views. Whether you’re drawn to its religious significance, historical significance, or simply its captivating beauty, Durham Cathedral is an extraordinary destination that will leave you in awe of its timeless brilliance. durhamcathedral.co.uk

Gala Theatre

Immerse yourself in a world of enchantment at the Gala Theatre in Durham. This cultural hub brings captivating performances and unforgettable experiences to its audiences. Prepare to be transported to Wonderland with their mesmerising production of ‘Alice in Wonderland’, showing from 1 until 12 August. Join Alice on her whimsical journey through the rabbit hole, as the beloved characters come to life on stage in a spectacle of music, dance, and vibrant costumes. For a different kind of enchantment, on 26 August, the Gala

Theatre presents ‘Andre Rieu: Love Is All Around,’ a spellbinding concert showcasing the world-renowned violinist and his orchestra. Experience the magic of live entertainment at the Gala Theatre, where imagination knows no bounds. galadurham.co.uk

Moon Jewellery

Unleash your inner glow and embrace the exquisite allure of Moon Jewellery. Located within the vibrant city of Durham, Moon Jewellery offers a captivating collection that caters to the discerning tastes of modern jewellery enthusiasts. From delicate necklaces that gracefully adorn your neckline to sparkling gemstone earrings that catch the light, their curated selection radiates elegance and sophistication. Each piece is meticulously crafted, blending timeless designs with contemporary flair. Whether you seek a unique statement piece or a thoughtful gift, Moon Jewellery is your destination for refined elegance. moon-jewellery.com

Bramwells Jewellers

This renowned jewellery boutique is a treasure trove of exquisite designs,

where passion and creativity intertwine. From sparkling diamonds to intricate timepieces, each piece at Bramwells tells a story of sophistication and class. Whether you’re searching for the perfect accessory or a timeless gift, their knowledgeable staff provides personalised assistance to ensure your choice is nothing short of perfection. Step into Bramwells Jewellers and experience the magic of exceptional craftsmanship, where every piece is a testament to enduring beauty and cherished moments.

bramwellsjewellers.co.uk

Woven Menswear

Woven Menswear is a stylish boutique that showcases a curated selection of men’s fashion, from sophisticated suits to casual attire. Explore their collection of premium brands, each chosen for their attention to detail and timeless appeal. With personalised service and expert styling advice, Woven Menswear offers a shopping experience tailored to your individual taste. Elevate your wardrobe with pieces that exude quality and effortlessly enhance your personal style, all in the heart of Durham. wovendurham.co.uk

Inspired by Lewis Carroll

Directed by Rachel Glover

Tuesday 1 to Saturday 12 August

Tickets from £15

03000 266 600 galadurham.co.uk

GETTING TO KNOW YOU >>

Name: Andrew North

Title: Founder of Alexander’s Prestige. Where is home? Yarm.

Three reasons you love where you live?

The perfect day for me is paddling down the river with the family, then popping for some ice cream and just appreciating nature. I love the fact that my kids can go to Yarm school, which, in my opinion, is the best school in the area. The third reason would have to be delicious meals at bistros on the high street, I’m a foodie!

THE DAY JOB>>

What do you do for a living?

I’m the founder of Alexander’s Prestige. A day in the life of you?

It’s never the same!

I overlook almost everything for the business, which means I have to dabble in all departments starting with regular meetings with the sales management teams, after-sales and accounts departments to make sure everything is running like clockwork.

I constantly look at the strategy for branding and marketing businesses, customer events, financial planning, and, of course, look after my staff. But I’m not a control freak, I promise!

Any recent, ongoing or upcoming projects or achievements we should know about?

It’s definitely exciting times for Alexander’s Prestige and Harvey Cooper.

Harvey Cooper is another one of my businesses, which is named after mine and my business partner’s eldest sons.

It’s based in Ripon, North Yorkshire and specialises in high-quality pre-loved cars. We just recently did a full brand refresh with new websites for both companies, so it’s been a great fresh start.

In addition to that, there are lots of exciting customer events approaching soon, we have our annual track day at Croft coming up, then the Grantley Hall garden party, and a secret meet at Donnington to name a few!

LUXE LOWDOWN:

Andrew North

What does downtime mean to you?

I love spending time with my family. We try to travel as much as possible, but when we’re not travelling I enjoy the simple things in life, such as spending time in the garden and watching my son go-karting. Nothing better than that!

Your favourite car?

I’ve got quite a few!

Some of them are: Lamborghini Urus Performante, Lamborghini STO (a very fun car!), Landrover Discovery (for a family feel) and Lamborghini Countach (a classic!).

LESSONS IN LIFE>>

What did you want to be when you were growing up?

Believe it or not, I have always wanted to be a car salesman! Mainly because my dad had a love for cars and I remember the day he bought his first BMW in 1989, we went to this shiny new showroom and I was fascinated ever since.

I remember seeing the well-dressed salesmen getting into their shiny new cars and I just thought ‘I want to be like them!’

I left school the day after my GSCEs and started working as an apprentice at a local BMW dealership. The rest is history…

What is the most important lesson life has taught you?

Money doesn’t buy happiness but it does buy you choices.

What is your greatest fear?

Boredom. I like to keep myself active and busy. If I’m not working, I’m spending quality time with my family, taking up some new hobbies, and I’m always on my feet! That’s how I prefer it.

I find that many successful business owners often have issues when they stop doing what they love, we always need a fix!

Which living person do you most admire and why?

I would have to say, my mum. She’s put up with a lot!

I think some people might name a celebrity, but it’s important to acknowledge those closest to you. These are the people that

know you best, wish you best and always want you to succeed. My mum is my role model.

What advice would you give to people just starting in the business?

The most important thing is to make sure you do what you love. Don’t chase the money, just work as hard as you can and good things will surely follow. In today’s society a lot of people set money as their only goal in business, but there’s more to it than that. If you have no passion for what you do and are only looking to make some quick money, chances are, you are not

the children as possessions, that is!)

What does the weekend mean to you?

Simply family time and good food.

A memorable holiday?

Normally, the last! If I had to pick one, it would be a fight between Courchevel skiing and Dubai. Of course, both were amazing for different reasons.

Who would be your top three dinner guests?

My late father, King Charles, Toto Wolff. The last place you ate?

Muse in Yarm.

The last book you read?

I’m not big on books, but I have listened

going to be successful. There are certain traits people should have when starting a business, and passion is one of many. That being said, cash flow is what kills many businesses in their early stage, not lack of profit, so my advice would be – to get good accounting advice!

LIVING LUXE>>

What is top of your bucket list?

To buy a classic Lamborghini Countach.

I used to have a poster of this car when I was little.

What is your most treasured possession?

One of my watches (unless you can count

to ‘Solve For Happy’ by Mo Gawdat.

It’s by a remarkable engineer, who landed top positions in a few different companies and had created incredible wealth, but realised he was desperately unhappy. He attacked the problem as an engineer would and created a logical equation for enduring happiness.

A brilliant read!

The last thing you listened to? Kygo.

The last thing you watched?

F1 Grand Prix.

Your three luxe things in life?

My phone, my family and my friends.

THE

Luxe chats to Andrew North, founder of Alexander’s Prestige to get an insight into his luxe things in life...

Bespoke creations

Luxe chats to Sara Halman and Josh Thompson, the brilliant wife and husband duo behind Halman Thompson, a bespoke metal craftsmanship business bringing beautiful bold creations to life…

Tell us about Halman Thompson…

During lockdown we saw a gap in the market for a brand specialising in creating bespoke products out of aged brass and copper. We developed several unique finishes through various methods of ageing and polishing the metals. Our first products were bespoke splashbacks, feature walls and unique pieces of wall art. We now have a full fabrication team capable of a wide variety of pieces including bar tops, worktops and table tops, and coffee tables for both residential and commercial projects.

The name Halman Thompson is each of our surnames and our children’s surname and we thought it would be a perfect fit as not only are we married but we are 50/50 business partners.

What was the inspiration behind the business?

We are always looking for opportunities that would let us focus on our combined strengths of digital marketing, brand building and creativity. Identifying and developing products that are not only beautiful and unique, but satisfy a gap in the market is very exciting for us both. The opportunities and the uses for our

project evolve on a daily basis and we are both strongly driven to establishing the Halman Thompson brand.

Are there any particular projects you’re proud of?

Halman Thompson is only two years old, but we have already been involved in some fabulous projects, namely the design and manufacturing of the G7 tables used in Cornwall in 2021 and most recently a bar top for the newly renovated Duchy of Cornwall Garden Centre, which was officially opened by Queen Camilla in May 2023.

Tell us about the services you offer…

We offer luxury non-ferrous metal fabrication anything from table and bar tops to splashbacks and kick plates. We are in the process of launching our own Halman Thompson coffee table range with a view to adding a full range of dining table and bar tops by the end of the year.

Where do you source your materials from?

We source non-ferrous metal from all over the world but the majority comes from British manufacturers. We then cut and age the metal in-house and can offer a range of different finishes that are then treated to protect and preserve the finish and also enhance the durability of our pieces.

Walk us through the process of bringing a design to life…

We work closely with each of our customers to design and develop the ideal piece for their project. Each of our finishes is natural and unique, and we have a great deal of control over the final look. So whether you are looking for a rustic aged piece for a period style kitchen, or a bright polished shiny piece for a modern home bar, we have the ideal finish.

What inspires you?

Seeing the results of our work inspires us. We take inspiration from fabulous metal projects around the world coupled with visions in our imagination. When we see our initial idea come to life into a finished project and when we see how much the customer loves their creation it gives us huge satisfaction and inspires us to continue doing what we love.

What would you say the ‘on trend’ look is in the world of interiors at the moment? Mixing metals. Gone are the days of sticking to one finish. Blending finishes creates a stunning and personalised look.

We work closely with each of our customers to design and develop the ideal piece for their project

Sweetpea and Willow Bernhardt Helios Entertainment Unit £5,445, sweetpeaandwillow.co.uk

The Coastal Lifestyle Company Nautical Striped Wooden Stool £68, thecoastallifestylecompany.co.uk

J.J. Textile Taupe Seashells Recycled Cotton Blanket £129, jjtextile.co.uk

Sophie Allport Coastal Birds Jug £19.50, sophieallport.com

Rowen Homes Large Wave Resin Faux Coral Sea Sculpture £34, rowenhomes.com

Aimee Mac Illustration

Seashell Print Linen Wall Hanging £65, aimeemacillustration.co.uk

INTERIOR INSPIRATION

A coastal retreat

Blue hues, neutral tones and nautical decor for an ocean-inspired home

Sweetpea and Willow Eichholtz Trapezium Chair £1,160, sweetpeaandwillow.co.uk

XVStripes South Hamble Buoy Cushion £65, xvstripes.com

The Coastal Lifestyle Company Nautical Buoy Pouffe £98, thecoastallifestylecompany.co.uk

Sweetpea and Willow Tahiti Sculpture £135, sweetpeaandwillow.co.uk

Beach House Art Wave Set No 2

£45, beachouseart.co.uk

Cox & Cox Blue Stripe Vase £75, coxandcox.co.uk

Ralph Lauren Hudsen Purple / White Beach Towel £129, seymourshome.com

LUXE LOVES

Summer style

Step out in style this season with Chelsea Peers’ Summer of Love collection. From gorgeous swimwear, to stunning pyjama sets, this beautiful collection has it all. Men, women and kids are all catered for and we’ve set our sights on this beautiful little satin orange and pink retro tile print number! A short pyjama set paired with a lightweight kimono… what more could you want?

£48, chelseapeersnyc.com

£775,000

Contact: 01740 645444 info@wynyardfineandcountry.co.uk

£600,000

Contact: 01740 645444 info@wynyardfineandcountry.co.uk

Durham

Wynyard 0191 384 2277 01740 645 444

info@durhamfineandcountry.co.uk

info@wynyardfineandcountry.co.uk

WALDRIDGE HALL, WALDRIDGE

£1,100,000

Contact: 01740 645444

info@wynyardfineandcountry.co.uk

SUTTON

£795,000

Contact: 01740 645444

info@wynyardfineandcountry.co.uk

Little moments

Nadia McSheffrey, our luxe parenting expert, shares with us her top tips on travelling with children…

another language. Involve them in the packing and organising before you go. Children are capable learners and letting them help (even if it takes longer!) fosters a sense of responsibility, independence and autonomy.

School’s out

One of my not-so-guilty pleasures is devouring glossy travel magazines. I used to love looking at pictures of stylish cities, snow-capped mountains and quaint little villages and then immediately Googling to see if Newcastle Airport had flights going to these exotic destinations. However, when you throw children into the mix, these seamless travel plans don’t always come to fruition. Have you ever felt like you needed a holiday to recover from a holiday with the kids? Over the years, I have been very conscious that a family trip needs to be just that; it needs to cater for all of the family. Travelling successfully with children can be done, we just need some forward planning. Firstly, we have to have realistic expectations. It’s important to understand that any change in routine or new experience can be a little overwhelming and so expect to see challenging behaviours regardless of age.

Before you go, prepare your young child for the journey. Explain how long it will take and if they will be stuck in a car or airline seat for a few hours. Read a book or watch some videos so they know what to expect. Describe, for example, turbulence and how there may be lots of people close together. Knowledge is power and so if you prepare your child in advance they will feel more secure and confident. If you have a fear of flying or travelling in general, please don’t mention this to your children. You don’t have to fake excitement but remain as neutral and factual as you can.

It’s a good idea to give your children information about the destination too. Show them pictures of where you’ll be staying and maybe some of the local attractions or activities you’ll be doing. I always buy my son a child-friendly guidebook or activity book about the place we are visiting. This builds his excitement but also prepares him for the type of food, weather and cultural differences he may experience. If you are going abroad, try learning a few phrases such as ‘please’, ‘thank you’ and ‘hello’; it always goes down well with the locals and children can benefit hugely from learning

Young children thrive on routine but it’s near enough impossible to stick to it when you’re away. Try to remember that it’s not about adhering to a strict schedule; it’s about being flexible but having a consistent sequence of events. If they normally have a nap after lunch then try to keep that going, even if it’s two hours later than normal. Meeting your child’s basic needs sounds a little obvious but we’re not always aware of the impact of a long journey or a different time zone on our little ones. Sometimes they may lose their appetite or forget to drink enough water in a hotter climate. When we visited Rome, my son Bodhi was three and a half years old. The city was incredibly busy and the temperatures were in the high 30s. We lowered our expectations about what we could cram in and we didn’t over-schedule him. We had hours of excitement, followed by hours of simple relaxation with no plans. If we can make sure our children are well-fed, hydrated and have enough exercise and good quality sleep, that’s half the battle. That doesn’t mean you won’t have tantrums from your four-year-old or meltdowns from your teen. We all need a little time to adjust to new surroundings; some settle quickly but for others, it can take up to 48 hours. Remember that when you return home, you may also notice more challenging behaviour or even regression for the first few days as they try to settle back into their normal routine. During these periods of adjustment, big emotions could erupt. Please treat your child (and yourself) with patience and grace. Practically, having familiar toys or comforting blankets can usually help a child who is feeling a little anxious when on holiday. I always suggest travelling with toys that children can actively engage with. When my son was younger, I used to wrap individual little toys for him to open throughout the journey. The anticipation of what was coming next had him hooked. Finally, as a safety tip, if your children are going to be away from you during your holiday (e.g. at an activity club), write your details on two pieces of paper. Give one to the club leader and put one in your child’s pocket. Tell your child what it is and why it’s there. For teens, it’s also a good idea to store their accommodation details and the number of the local emergency services in their phone.

Going away with our family shouldn’t be a chore. In fact, children often highlight elements of joy on our trips that we would ordinarily be oblivious to. If we can’t be childlike and carefree on holiday, then when can we?

Nadia McSheffrey is founder of The Tranquil Treehouse. For more information and daily parenting support, follow her at: thetranquiltreehouse.com and on Facebook and Instagram @tranquiltreehouse

Valley Gardens Summer Camp

FROM 24 JULY

A relaxing summer holiday retreat like no other. Valley Gardens Summer Camp will focus on enjoyment, teambuilding and fun all while combining physically active games such as ‘capture the flag’, ‘dodgeball’ and more, as well as much-needed downtime with friends. Here, children can build connections and make holiday memories in an unstructured playtime. Did we forget to mention, there’s lots of board games too! thecoastalclub.org

Newcastle Falcons Residential Camp

31 JULY - 4 AUGUST

Four Day Art School At Laing Art Gallery

FROM 25 JULY

For a bit of artistic fun, why not encourage mini you to explore and develop their creative talent by joining a four day art school at Laing Art Gallery. Children, aged 11 to 16, will be encouraged to explore the extensive library of art within the gallery, draw inspiration from it, roll up their sleeves and work with professional educators to build an impressive portfolio. Art has no boundaries - experiment with a variety of materials, different drawing techniques and let your imagination roar. laingartgallery.org.uk

Enchanted Entertainment’s Summer Musical Theatre Workshop

7 AUGUST - 12 AUGUST

For aspiring actors and creative souls, Tyne Theatre and Opera House is offering an exclusive opportunity for children aged eight to 18 to immerse themselves in a week-long extravaganza of workshops. Delve into the world of performing arts with sessions on acting techniques, enchanting songs, and captivating musical theatre routines. The grand finale? A dazzling performance staged by the talented children themselves, leaving family and friends in awe. Enrol in the Enchanted Entertainment's Summer Musical Theatre Workshop for a transformative experience that could be your gateway to Hollywood dreams! tynetheatreandoperahouse.uk

Rugby holds boundless possibilities beyond what meets the eye. For young enthusiasts of this captivating sport, a remarkable opportunity awaits. Newcastle Falcons Residential Camp is a transformative experience where children can delve deep into the world of rugby, honing their individual and team skills, mastering game management, and embracing both offensive and defensive strategies. Under the guidance of Newcastle Falcons Community Department and esteemed guest coaches from the Newcastle Falcons First team, participants will gain valuable insights, equipping them for future endeavours in the sport. This week-long camp, set amidst the picturesque Northumberland countryside, welcomes children aged 12 to 16 of all abilities, offering a perfect blend of fun, fresh air, and personal growth. rugbycamps.co.uk

Dance Around The World Summer Camp

7 AUGUST - 11 AUGUST

Get ready for an exhilarating dance experience like no other, tailored for children aged five to 14. Unlock the magic of movement as your little ones embark on a cultural journey through the world of dance. From electrifying American Hip Hop to the mesmerising dragons of China and the vibrant rhythms of Rio’s carnival, this summer camp transcends boundaries. Not limited to dancing alone, the camp also offers exciting prop crafting sessions and the opportunity to forge lifelong friendships. And to conclude this week-long adventure on a high note, children will showcase their talents in the Camp Finale Show, ensuring an unforgettable ending to this joyous summer camp. dancecity.co.uk

Looking to keep little ones busy this summer? We’ve got you covered. From captivating educational summer schools to thrilling outdoor adventures, discover the region’s hidden gems that promise to create unforgettable memories…

School noticeboard

Luxe checks in with some local schools on their latest news, achievements and highlights…

A glowing report

Blooming success

Pupils from Gilesgate Primary School helped Durham County Council’s civic pride and clean and green teams plant this year’s flower display at Gilesgate roundabout, one of Durham’s most prominent roundabouts. Each year the Gilesgate display follows a different theme, with this year’s design created to mark the coronation year of King Charles III. The planting marks the tenth year the school has been involved in the display, which is seen by thousands of visitors and residents coming in and out of the city.

Cllr Mark Wilkes, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for neighbourhoods and climate change, said: “Gilesgate roundabout connects key routes leading to and from Durham City. As such, the annual flower display gives a colourful welcome to hundreds of visitors each day and I am pleased that in His Majesty King Charles III’s coronation year we are able to provide a wonderful display celebrating the occasion.

“We are delighted to involve pupils from Gilesgate Primary School who for a decade now have helped us plant the display. Not only is this a fun activity for the children, but it also teaches them about our natural world and allows them to create something for the community which they will be able to enjoy each time they pass.”

The pupils were accompanied by Chairman of the council, Cllr Joan Nicholson, her consort Robert Nicholson, and Vice Lord-Lieutenant Michael Poole. The Gilesgate flower planting marks the beginning of Durham in Bloom activities in preparation for Northumbria in Bloom when judges will visit this July. durham.gov.uk/civicpride

A night to remember

Barnard Castle School’s aspiring and talented musicians showcased their outstanding performances at the Young Musician of the Year competition in June and deserve commendation for their exceptional skills. Alice and Anna deserve special congratulations for emerging as the winners in the Junior and Advanced finals, respectively. The school has an exceptional music department and should also be congratulated for their efforts for organising the event, and to all the adjudicators for their valuable support throughout each competition. barnardcastleschool.org.uk

Motivating a generation

Dragons’ Den star Sara Davies gave an empowering talk to the next generation of business leaders and entrepreneurs from her home region.

The TV business guru and founder of multi-million pound global enterprise Crafter’s Companion told pupils in Newcastle of her plans to be the ultimate ‘voice of authority’ on crafting.

Sara explained: “When people want to learn about craft and start searching online, I want to be that voice of authority. I want to be the Mary Berry of the crafting world!”

She shared her vision with a 250-strong audience at Dame Allan’s Schools as she gave an inspirational lecture about her own transformative schooldays and her ‘drive, determination and passion’ to succeed.

“I’ve got where I have because of my mindset,” she told pupils at the Fenham-based independent school. “When you’ve got the drive, you can do absolutely anything. I was never the smartest person in the room, I wasn’t even at the halfway mark, but I had more drive in abundance than every other person, and that’s what made the difference. I worked at full capacity, and always believed there was that little bit more in the tank.”

Jagdeep Singh, a Year 12 pupil from South Shields studying Business, Economics and Maths at A Level, said: “Sara’s lecture was truly inspiring, I could listen to her speak for hours!

Drive seemed to be the focus of her presentation, with Sara proving her doubters wrong and reaching her goals.”

Principal Will Scott said: “It was an honour to welcome Sara to Dame Allan’s and hear her talk about the importance of her own defining schooldays to a captivated audience. These lectures aim to raise the aspirations of our pupils and I’m in no doubt that Sara’s clear drive, determination and passion – and of course her incredibly successful career – will have inspired all those who attended.” dameallans.co.uk

Team work!

A team from Newcastle High School for Girls have been presented with the coveted “Project of the Year” and “People’s Choice” for their Industrial Cadet Bronze Award.

The seven budding engineers have been working tirelessly throughout the year on their report with the support of their Industrial Cadet’s partner, Canford Audio, after being tasked with developing a sustainable theme park. They were then required to formally present their report to a panel of experts from leading organisations as well as answer in depth questions.

The experts were hugely impressed with the outstanding quality of the girls’ report including their creative thinking founded in extensive scientific knowledge and excellent project management in order to respond to the brief, as well as the quality of their presentation.

The assessors wrote that the report: “was at a standard, with depth of considerations and research, that we would expect to see for internal project proposals”. Praise indeed for such a young team.

The NHSG team was presented with their award at a Regional Celebration event held at Newcastle University on 28 June. Industrial Cadets is an national industry led quality benchmark for outreach and education programmes to build pathways through education and employment and King Charles is the Patron of the programme.

Promoting the development of the next generation of UK’s young minds, Industrial Cadets is a kitemark for schools and students seeking valuable and exciting STEM opportunities. newcastlehigh.gdst.net / etrust.org.uk/industrial-cadets

The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) has awarded Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation the highest ‘Excellent’ rating following a recent inspection. Inspectors from across the country said DCSF was fully compliant and also wrote in glowing terms about the quality of the academic and personal development of the school’s pupils. Inspectors reported that children at both Chorister School and Durham School “demonstrate an extremely high level of achievement in their academic studies and through their co-curricular commitments”. Inspectors from the Independent Schools Inspectorate observed and spoke with pupils in a range of settings from three-yearolds planting seeds through to Year 13s participating in a Model United Nations Council. They found that the pupils confidently apply higher-order thinking skills to rapidly extend their academic knowledge; while also showing a highly developed moral sense, taking responsibility for their own behaviour and being sensitive to the needs of others. Kieran McLaughlin, DCSF Principal and Headmaster of Durham School, said: “I am proud that the Inspectors recognised in our children the values, the work ethic and the positive attitudes that we see each and every day. “Our focus is on instilling in our pupils a confidence for life and respect for all; this Inspection report shows we are on the right track. It is a journey of continuous improvement – for our pupils, our staff and our wider school community – and a journey that is underpinned by our MARK values of moral integrity, ambition, responsibility and kindness. This report shows those values shining through.” dcsf.org.uk

The award goes to...

Yarm School’s student magazine has proudly been recognised by the National Shine School Media Awards for the third consecutive year. A group of high-profile industry professionals including Hugh Dickerson from Google, Liz Hunt from the Daily Mail, and Terry Mansfield CBE from Hearst have shortlisted three of our students for awards: Annabel Cochrane, Anna Page, and Poppy Bell. Over 40 students have been involved in producing the magazine, cultivating the engagement of their peers, staff and the YSA. Copies of the magazine, priced at £2, are available to buy through the school. All profits made from this edition will be donated to ‘The Junction Foundation’, which seeks to work with disadvantaged children through a number of different projects across Tees Valley. The National Shine School Media Awards took place in London on Monday 3 July. yarmschool.org

LUXE MAMA

with Elysia Fryer Best foot forward

Juggling my new life as a mum of two has been a real eye opener these last few months. Switching between the newborn bubble and toddlerhood comes with its own challenges, but it has also allowed me to look at life in a wonderful new way.

In one sense we are experiencing everything for the first time, and in another we are really starting to get the hang of things (with a couple of tantrums thrown in to keep us on our toes!). It has been incredibly rewarding

Feeling good >>

to see how our children develop and grow in such a short space of time. In and amongst all of that beautiful chaos that comes with motherhood, it is easy to lose ourselves in the thousands of products and contrasting advice out there on the internet and in our social circles. We’re here to help you with some must-haves for those balmy summer days, travel and safety equipment, and also some inspiring fashion for pregnancy and breastfeeding. Big smiles for those sunny days ahead.

Bump & Milk is the brand that makes mamas feel fantastic. It’s bringing maternity and breastfeeding fashion to the market in a way that doesn’t compromise on style. We caught up with founder Alex Goyal…

both fashionable and practical? Just before my second son was born I realised I was about to enter a ‘nothing to wear’ period for at least another 2.5 years… and this was my lightbulb moment.

What do you keep in mind when creating new pieces?

Summer essentials >>

Cool kit for little people this sunny season…

Can you give us a bit of background about yourself and your journey to Bump & Milk?

Before Bump & Milk, I became a mum, and before I became a mum I was a dentist. After having kids, what I wanted more than anything else was flexibility, so that I could raise my boys the way I felt was right. This wasn’t possible with a 9-5 job, living away from the family, and the ridiculously expensive UK childcare system. I decided not to go back to work in my profession and started thinking about what business I can build so I can run it from home alongside raising my little ones.

Speaking from experience, there has been a real lack of quality, beautiful clothing for pregnant and breastfeeding mamas. You’ve certainly found a gap in the market! Why was this so important for you?

I was breastfeeding my first son for 2.5 years and had ‘nothing to wear’ that entire time!

He was born when I was a 27-year-old active mum travelling a lot, and frumpy and low-quality maternity clothes - not to mention the lack of breastfeeding options - made me question the fashion industry and their perception of new mums. Why can’t mums look fabulous, and wear high-quality clothes that are

Sustainability is key - not only in choosing the right fabrics but also in delivering the highest possible quality. I believe that maternity and breastfeeding garments should be really well madewhich is not what the high street offers. While taking care of little ones, our clothes require washing all of the time - we are covered with food and fingerprints! Designs and prints need to be timeless, but also fashionable. At the end of the day, all we want is for mums to feel empowered and beautiful.

What tips can you give to new mums shopping for breastfeeding-friendly fashion?

Chest circumference is much more important than size. It takes months for our breasts to shrink - at least six until the baby starts on solids or sometimes even longer. Size is just a number, so the best tip is to buy clothes that feel comfortable around the bust.

What is your go-to look?

A Bump & Milk dress, styled up with a blazer and beautiful pair of shoes or dressed down with a denim jacket and sneakers.

Why is it so important for you to support breastfeeding mamas?

Breastfeeding is like having a full-time job that is also unpaid, undervalued andunappreciated. Breastfeeding health benefits for mothers and babies are mind-blowing - and it’s something everyone should be aware of. I believe that it’s a missing part in our educational and healthcare system.

bumpandmilk.com

The way forward >>

The CYBEX Anoris T i-Size

to narrow down your search. So, as soon as you come across a brand that offers something a little different, there’s no surprise that it sparks interest. Introducing the Anoris T i-Size. CYBEX is leading the way when it comes to innovative technology, and this new and improved toddler seat is sure to change the game.

As we welcomed our tiniest tot, George grew out of his car seat and we found ourselves on the hunt for the perfect toddler car seat that ticks all the boxes when it comes to comfort and safety without compromise. Now, when shopping for products in the baby and toddler world, it is easy to get overwhelmed - there’s so much out there and it’s impossible

It’s the first car seat featuring a full body air bag, meaning you can rotate your tot to a front-facing seat without compromising on safety - with approximately 50% more protection than a conventional forward-facing seat. The integrated air bag is housed in the strap that simply clicks secure like a seatbelt, across the little one’s midriff. George was a little unsure at first - as it is slightly bulkier than the thin straps that previously held him in place - but once we adjusted the seat to fit, he happily uses the strap as an arm rest, and we’re enjoying not battling with shoulder straps every time we’re in and out the car.

The Anoris has been expertly designed to protect a child’s growing limbs, meaning there’s plenty of space to grow, from 15 months to around six years of age. It has a larger than average price tag of £539.95 on the CYBEX website, but it’s the world’s first when it comes to leading car seat technology and it’s one that will stick around for a while. George loves it! cybex-online.com

AT THE WHEEL with

A thrilling ride

It’s funny how some cars can stir up emotions or memories. The car I’ve had the pleasure of driving this summer has brought back memories galore for me.

A very close family friend who, like myself, loves cars, used to own one of the original left-hand drive M3s. I remember seeing Richard’s car every day and thinking how cool it was and I don’t think I realised just how special the car actually was back in the day. The boxy styling reminded me of the Batmobile!

Another keen M3 driver was my solicitor Leo who did my legal work for me when I bought Sachins restaurant 23 years ago. Being the petrolhead he is, he also used to drive an M3. I’m sure he could have bought any car he wanted, but for him, the M3 was not only practical, it had the performance. His beautiful metallic blue car sounded great when he drove in and out of the car park at the restaurant.

My final memory was an expensive one when a family wedding in Birmingham called for me to hire a car for the weekend. I wanted to see what the M3 fuss was all about. My local BMW dealership at the time had started hiring cars, and, having always wanted to drive an M3 I decided to hire one. The drive down to Birmingham was brilliant and I couldn’t fault the car at all, it was a dream to drive and it managed the journey with absolute ease.

When parking the car at the venue, everything was OK, but the following morning I decided to fill up with petrol and it was when I got in the car that I noticed the

beautiful wing mirrors had been stolen. At the time people were swapping their boring wing mirrors for the very funky-looking M3 ones. Unfortunately, someone liked the mirrors a little too much and they were gone in a flash.

That obviously put a dampener on the weekend but I loved every mile of my drive in the M3, albeit without wing mirrors on my journey back home!

The original M2 was launched in 2015. This cute-looking sporty number was an instant sales success and as waiting lists grew, people had to wait years to get one. I never got the chance to drive one, so this will make driving this latest model all the more rewarding.

The M Division has worked its magic with this car. Its flared wheel arches, along with the menacing front and rear bumpers and quad exhaust tailpipes, make you realise this is no ordinary 2 Series.

The 3LT twin-turbo engine is the same as the one found in the M3 and M4. BMW has reduced the engine’s power so the cheeky little upstart doesn’t embarrass M3 or M4 owners. The engine however still produces 460bhp. The top speed is limited to 155mph unless you opt for the M Division’s Driver’s Pack which costs £2,305, but the top speed increases to 180mph if you do.

The economy aspect of the car is pretty good and most owners should average 27mpg. This little pocket rocket gets to 60mph in 4.1 seconds with an automatic gearbox.

The car is available with a six-speed manual or an eight-speed auto and the car I drove was fitted with the manual box. I haven’t driven a manual for a while, however, it’s

like riding a bike – you just don’t forget. My car had standard bucket seats which were great, and if you are feeling flush, you can opt for carbon bucket seats. At £7,000 they aren’t cheap, but you also get carbon around the dash as well as a carbon roof. Harman Kardon speakers are standard as are adaptive LED headlights and electric seats. The M2 is priced from £65,000 which puts

having to fiddle around putting your desired settings in every time.

The dash is dominated by a screen, half of which is for the driver, with the speedometer, rev counter, as well as the navigation map in the background. The other half of the screen controls the heating, navigation, and media, all of which are controlled via the iDrive dial. After using

the car in direct competition with the AMG A45 as well as the Porsche Cayman GTS. Once you’re in the car you are greeted with a beautiful, thick leather-trimmed steering wheel. At the top, you have two very interesting red buttons on each side of the wheel. On the left side you have M1 and the right side is M2. These buttons are shortcuts for the car’s setup. You can decide how you want the steering, suspension, acceleration and braking. Once set up it saves you from

the system for a while, you realise just how user-friendly and easy it is.

It was great to get behind the wheel of an M2, it was as good as I was hoping it would be to drive, from the sound of the engine to the very powerful brakes. When you haven’t driven a BMW for a while you remember pretty quickly they are the ultimate driving machine.

Car supplied by Vertu BMW Boldon

Vertu

A true icon

Bob Arora hits the road in the Ferrari Roma

My brother has always been a fan of Formula 1, I however, have never really been a fan of cars going round and round a track. Saying that, my favourite team was always Ferrari, I think it was down to them building the most beautiful road cars.

Since I’ve binge watched every season of Drive to Survive on Netflix, I’ve now started watching the Grand Prix, albeit the highlights on a Sunday. In recent years Mercedes dominated but now Red Bull have taken their throne and they are untouchable. Ferrari now has a new team manager along with two great drivers, and, despite most of the crowds wanting them to win, they are unfortunately still off the pace of the Red Bull cars.

My earliest memory as a child was when my parents would drive past the old Reg Vardy Ferrari garage in Houghton-le-Spring. Driving past and seeing all of the shiny red Ferraris was always a treat. The first time I went to the showroom I remember being mesmerised by the car’s styling and the prancing horse!

One thing the designers always manage to do is get the styling absolutely bang on. The Ferrari dealership in Houghton-le-Spring has long gone and our nearest showrooms were either in Leeds or Edinburgh. Thankfully we now have our own Ferrari dealership on our doorstep at the Silverlink.

When I picked up the Roma, a local owner brought his F40 down for its yearly MOT and this was a real treat to see in the flesh.

In classic red the car looked absolutely out of this world.

Having previously seen a few images of the Roma, I didn’t think it looked that good at all. But when you see the car in person you realise just how beautiful it is from any angle. It’s one of those rare cars that make you look back at it every time you park it. From the sculpted front wings to the bulge in the middle of the bonnet, the designers have managed to make the car look so seductive and sporty – even the door handles blend into the bodywork. Being a front-engined car, the front bonnet is quite long and the rear of the car is very petite and looks tremendous. The Roma is over 100kg lighter than the Portofino. This

weight advantage makes itself known when you get behind the wheel. The car relishes country or twisty terrain and despite its size, it really is a joy to drive on these roads. The feel from the steering wheel is fantastic and the power is on tap for you to exploit where you obviously can.

One more thing I noticed… press the heated steering wheel button and it heats up in record time, I’ve never known a wheel to get so hot so quickly before! If I was Ferrari I’d be bragging about just how quickly it warms up.

The 3.9LT twin turbo V8 engine has plenty of power. It gets the car to 62mph in just over three seconds and its top speed is 195mph. For anyone interested the car

managed an unbelievable 25mpg while I had the pleasure of driving it. I’m guessing those amazing economy figures might be partly down to the eight-speed gearbox. Ferrari believes 70% of customers will be new to the brand. The car’s main competitors are the Aston DB11 and the Bentley Continental. The interior has splashes of carbon fibre and very soft leather all over. It features a passenger information screen which allows them to control the radio and they can also see a rev counter and the speed you are driving.

The middle of the dash has a screen which looks like an iPad that’s been on a diet. This controls all of the heating, radio, phone and navigation. The steering wheel has the car’s start button at the bottom, and the wheel itself has carbon fibre and leather all over. The indicators are buttons at the top of the wheel and it takes a bit of getting used to. You’ll also spot a little bar that lights up when you get close to the red line on the rev counter. A dial that controls the car’s suspension setup is also at the bottom of the wheel. A little spoiler at the back of the car rises up once you reach 60mph. You can choose from Race mode, Sport, Comfort and Wet. The traction control can be switched off but I’d do this at your peril – 612bhp and rear-wheel drive, enough said!

The Roma is classed as a 2+2 tourer. The rear seats would be ideal for the guy who got into the safe in Oceans 11, but if you aren’t blessed to be as agile and bendy as him then I’d leave the seats for young kids. The car is priced from £175k and I’m sure the options list will be extensive as you can tick away to your heart’s content.

If you are lucky enough to be able to buy this stunning car I would add at least 10 minutes to every journey as someone will definitely speak to you about this beautiful Ferrari.

Car courtesy of Ferrari Silverlink

A league of its own

August is set to be an exciting month for golf enthusiasts as Close House Golf Club prepares to host one of the prestigious tournaments of the International Series England, solidifying its position among the world's top golfing destinations. As the fifth stop on The International Series in 2023, this US$2 million tournament is scheduled to take place from 17 - 20 August, promising an exhilarating display of skill and talent.

Last summer, the International Series England made its inaugural appearance in the same region, leaving an indelible mark on the golfing landscape. This event was a significant milestone for both the International Series and the Asian Tour, as it marked the first time the Tour had organised a competition in the United Kingdom. The International Series, a visionary project launched last year with a historic investment by LIV Golf, aims to cultivate the next generation of golfing stars while providing unprecedented pathways to top-level competition within the LIV Golf League. This groundbreaking initiative, integrated into the Asian Tour schedule, featured seven International Series events across seven countries on three continents, during the previous season. The resounding success of this premier level of events has solidified the International Series as a prominent platform for nurturing talent and fostering excellence in the world of golf.

It comes as no surprise that Close House has been chosen as one of the prestigious venues for this year's highly anticipated International Series England. With its remarkable rise to prominence in recent years, Close House has become a soughtafter destination for both professional and amateur golfers. The course's undeniable allure lies not only in its challenging design and breathtaking surroundings, but also in the warm hospitality and support of the local community, as acclaimed professional golfer Lee Westwood attests.

As one of the most distinguished players in the world, Lee Westwood has a personal connection with Close House that spans over a decade: "I have been attached with Close House for 12 years, I opened the course with Sir Graham Wylie at the time when I was World number one," Lee proudly declares.

With such a rich history, Lee’s fondness for Close House is evident, and he eagerly anticipates having such a prestigious tournament take place at his home course:

"I am looking forward to having a World Class field of golfers, visiting and playing at my home course," Lee says. "I am keen to see how they handle it and for them to experience the great support the local community always brings to sporting events in the North East." The warm embrace of the North East community is known far and wide, and sporting events held in this region are no exception. The passionate spectators

and unwavering support they provide create an electric atmosphere that will certainly add an extra layer of excitement to the tournament.

“Although the course is relatively new, it has matured so quickly into a top class Championship course, and is a great walk round with it being set in beautiful countryside," explains Lee. The scenic splendour of the Northumbrian countryside envelops the course, creating a serene backdrop that enhances the golfing experience for players and spectators alike.

Lee, a true connoisseur of the game, frequently practises at Close House when he returns home. He notes: "I visit Close House whenever I am home, and I always see that everyone enjoys their time there." This testament speaks volumes about the welcoming environment that permeates the club. Be it visiting golfers, members, or the local community, all receive a warm and inviting welcome at Close House, thanks to the dedicated and professional staff who ensure every visit is exceptional.

"The course’s elevation changes making it a very challenging one, and it often gets a little breezy in the Northumbrian countryside," explains Lee as he discusses the challenges that lie ahead for players.

Close House's undulating fairways and greens require precision and strategic thinking, testing the skills of even the most seasoned golfers. The potential for tough pin positions during the tournament further adds to the course's reputation as a true test of golfing prowess.

As the tournament draws near, Lee eagerly awaits the opportunity for his fellow Tour Players to experience the warmth and hospitality that Close House and its surrounding community offer. "All the staff are so professional, and I can't wait for my fellow Tour Players to experience the warmth and hospitality of Close House," Westwood remarks.

“It’s a great regional event as the North East is sports mad and other than football, we don’t get a large number of events coming to the region on this scale. The tournament will bring a lot of golfers to Close House and showcase the region as a great place to visit,” says Sir Graham Wylie as he expresses his excitement for the upcoming tournament. With the fusion of an exceptional Championship course, breathtaking scenery, and the unwavering support of the North East, Close House Golf Club is poised to create lasting memories for players and spectators alike during this August's International Series tournament. closehouse.com

Close House Golf Club is scheduled to host one of the prestigious tournaments of the International Series England this August. Nicole Wood chats to Lee Westwood and Sir Graham Wylie about the upcoming competition…

It’s a great regional event as the North East is sports mad and other than football, we don’t get a large number of events coming to the region on this scale.

Make it green

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Gorgeous getaways

Press pause and escape to Casa de Campo Resort and Villas - one of most luxurious resorts in the Dominican Republic and deemed the leading wellbeing destination in the Caribbean. A place where you can truly switch off, feel worlds away from the every day and reconnect with your true self. We’re dreaming about days spent lounging by the pool, dining al fresco with the most gorgeous ocean views or indulging in one of the dreamy treatments at the all-new spa and wellness centre. Oh-so blissful.

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luxe:looks

Break out the fizz. Time to get down to some people-spotting as we bring you our social snapshot of happenings across the North East. Eyes and teeth time!

Ferrari Roma Spider launch, JCT600 Newcastle in partnership with Luxe Magazine

JLF Law and Berry’s Golf Day, Close House

Lookers Premium Anniversary Celebration

NE1 Consultation launch, ABOVE Newcastle

Lobster Festival, Hardwick Hall

Echo Events’ Northern Law Awards, Hilton Hotel Newcastle Gateshead

On 22 June, Hilton Hotel Newcastle Gateshead hosted the Northern Law Awards, an event that recognised the exceptional accomplishments of individuals in the legal field within the region. With a reputation for integrity and a rigorous judging process, this year’s awards ceremony once again demonstrated its resounding triumph. The event, with main partners Trinity Chambers, attracted nearly 300 prestigious guests from the legal world.

Echo Events and Association Management, organisers of the event, the North East Marketing Awards and North East Accountancy Awards, have chosen the venue annually for the last 10 years. The central location with spectacular River Tyne views, efficient on-the-day experience and a collaborative team ensures a smooth, stress-free experience for all involved.

Luxe supper club, Matfen Hall

Let’s see you! If you would like your event featured on our Luxe:Looks pages please supply images with full captions (WeTransfer or Dropbox is best) to: nicole@allies-group.com

DB12 launch, Aston Martin Newcastle